Employee assistance programs were introduced over eight years ago to help works in either small medium or large businesses resolve their issues that hurt their productivity. This introduction was due to the realization that the wellbeing of every worker is crucial as it is directly proportional to their productivity. This has led to many EAP providers who offer different packages to their clients. There are various forms in which EAP comes in. Due to this, therefore, it becomes hard as an organization to choose the best provider. Therefore consider the following:
Check if the provider guarantees privacy. These providers will be dealing with the private information of your workers, and hence you need to ensure that their privacy is guaranteed. All their files should be separated from records of health insurance and should be protected.
Evaluate their cost structure. The cost will tend to vary from one program to another. However, the price should reflect the quality of services offered. A reliable provider will also disclose any additional charges to be incurred.
A right provider has a well-established communication system. An appropriate service provider in this field does not wait for their clients to find out any information on their own. They communicate any important issues as soon as they arise.
Importance of EAP
Reduces company expenses
Mental health issues cost employers a huge amount of money.EAP helps to address the mental problems of your employees in your firm. This, in turn, will give employers an excellent return on investment.
It is affordable
Another major benefit of this program is that it is affordable to implement. The cost of using EAP is much less than the cost the employer has to pay annually for health insurance. It is wise always to inform your employees on the availability of the program. This is to ensure that they use it frequently.
It provides a positive working environment.
Issues related to stress, such as reduced performance, absenteeism, and decreased performance, will not only affect a single employee but the whole company workforce. EAP can be used to help a troubled employee by providing adequate support. This reduces stress levels, and hence work performance is increased.
Leads to enhanced productivity
Distracted employees are always less motivated and become less creative. They will require many off days to deal with personal problems. This will, in turn, hurt the productivity of the company. EAP providers helps to address these issues and therefore helps employees to develop coping mechanisms when dealing with personal issues. This, in turn, will improve the productivity of your employees.