Organizations that invest in an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can reap a variety of benefits, from reducing overall health costs to creating a positive work environment. An EAP is a workplace benefit offered by a company to help employees resolve personal issues that could affect their performance. It is available to employees and their immediate family members 24/7, and is kept confidential. Research shows that 95% of companies with more than 5000 employees have an EAP in place.
This is because it can reduce the likelihood of accidents and workers' compensation claims, as well as improve employee morale and productivity. It can also be used as part of the hiring marketing strategy, as candidates may be more likely to choose a company that offers an EAP over one that does not. Organizing an internal EAP means that qualified employees manage the program and offer on-site benefits. This allows for efficient and confidential access to personalized resources, making them a great way to help employees stay at work and remain productive.
Employers do not have access to any information about which employees use the program or how often they do so. When stress becomes too difficult to bear, an employee assistance program can go a long way in making anything an employee is struggling with outside or inside the office more manageable. It is important for organizations to find out if their EAP referrals actually help employees and adjust the program as needed. As employee services and needs evolve, it's essential to ensure that employees maintain and improve their EAP-related skills.
Employees expect the same level of customization, ease of use and experience they get as consumers in terms of the benefits they access as employees. There must be a policy that describes the intent of the program, for example, that provides confidential and voluntary assistance to employees and their families. For many compelling reasons that attract both employers and employees, an employee assistance program (EAP) is a powerful workplace benefit. Investing in an EAP can help organizations reduce overall health costs, reduce the use of health insurance, have fewer absences, create a positive work environment, and provide efficient and confidential access to personalized resources.
