Mental Health Parity Compliance Remains a Key Focus in 2024 - The federal government is continuing its efforts to improve access to mental health and substance use disorder (MH/SUD) care in 2024, with a top enforcement...

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- Study Shows 40% of Insured Workers Delay Health Care Due to Cost - A study by employee health payment platform Paytient revealed the challenges Americans face with employer-sponsored insurance. Notably, 40% of workers...

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U.S. Supreme Court Rules That Mandatory Job Transfer Can Be Discriminatory Under Title VII - On April 17, 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a unanimous decision in Muldrow v. City of St. Louis, holding that a...

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How Return-to-Work Programs Impact Workers’ Compensation Expenses - Workers’ compensation expenses are determined by a wide range of factors; however, one of the most significant cost components in any workers’...

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Breaking Down Mental Health Stigma - May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a national health observance dedicated to shedding light on mental health conditions and fostering understanding and support for those...

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Mental Health in America and How to Get Help - More than half of adults in the United States will experience mental illness-which refers to a variety of conditions that affect one’s mood, behavior, feelings or thinking-...

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Health Care Costs and Your Employee Health Plan - Health care costs, and consequently employee health benefits costs, have been increasing at an alarming rate for nearly a decade. Avoiding rising health care costs is...

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EEOC Releases Final Rule Implementing Pregnant Workers Fairness Act - On April 15, 2024, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) released a final rule to implement the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA)...

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OSHA Announces Final Rule on Worker Walkaround Representative Designation - OSHA recently announced its final rule that clarifies the rights of employees to authorize a representative to accompany an OSHA compliance...

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Cloud Security Management Explained - Cloud computing refers to a pay-per-use service that equips users with on-demand access to a range of IT resources (e.g., databases, software, servers, networking and analytics...

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Preparing for the DOL’s New Overtime Rule - In early March 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) proposed overtime rule, announced in August 2023, entered its last stage of review. Publication of the final rule is...

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- OSHA’s Worker Walkaround Designation Process Frequently Asked Questions - On March 29, 2024, OSHA announced its final rule that clarifies the rights of employees to authorize a nonemployee, third-party representative...

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OSHA Announces Final Rule on Worker Walkaround Representative Designation - On March 29, 2024, OSHA announced its final rule that clarifies the rights of employees to authorize a representative to accompany an OSHA...

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HHS Encourages Urgent Review of HIPAA Compliance Following Health Care Cyberattack - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently issued a letter addressing the cybersecurity incident impacting Change...

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- What Employers Should Know About EEO Retaliation - The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is a federal agency responsible for enforcing federal equal employment opportunity (EEO) laws. Each EEO law...

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U.S. Supreme Court Cases for Employers to Watch in 2024 - In 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court will decide several cases-it has already decided one case-that may have a significant impact on employers. It is important that...

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Types of Transitional Duties in Return-to-Work Programs - When an employee experiences an occupational illness or injury, their eventual return to the workplace can create considerable challenges, putting significant...

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April Is Distracted Driving Awareness Month - The National Safety Council recognizes April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. This event is intended to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and...

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Recognizing the Signs of Stress and Building Resilience - April is Stress Awareness Month, a time dedicated to acknowledging the prevalence of stress and empowering individuals to manage it effectively. In today’s fast-...

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- The Health Benefits of Walking - Walking is often overlooked as a form of exercise; however, it offers several health benefits for the body and mind. This simple yet powerful activity is accessible to people of all...

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- FMCSA Exempts 9- and 15-passenger Vans From Operating Authority Requirements - On Feb. 26, 2024, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) amended its regulations to implement the statutory exemption...

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- Change Healthcare Cyberattack Causes Unprecedented Disruptions - On Feb. 21, 2024, Change Healthcare, a subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group (UHG) and one of the largest platforms for managing health insurance billing and...

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- New CDC Isolation Guidance and Employee Leave Considerations - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) new guidance that individuals no longer need to isolate from work for five days following a...

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- - HHS Highlights HIPAA Violations and Breaches in Annual Reports - The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently shared two reports on compliance with HIPAA’s privacy, security and breach notification...

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DOL Independent Contractor Rule - Worker classification directly impacts employee eligibility for benefits, legal protections (such as minimum wage and overtime rights) and taxation. Employee misclassification is a...

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- HR Insights: Avoid 10 Common ADA Mistakes - The ADA Amendments Act of 2008 broadened the definition of disability previously established by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and effectively expanded the group...

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- Live Well, Work Well - March 2024 - Understanding Your Kidney Health - March is National Kidney Month, making it a great time to take charge of your health by lowering your chances of developing kidney disease. Your...

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- Mental Health Minute - March 2024 - Recognizing the Symptoms of ADHD in Adults - New research by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration shows that prescriptions for drugs used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity...

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4 Ways AI Will Impact the Workplace in 2024 - Artificial intelligence (AI) garnered attention from every industry in 2023, revolutionizing the way organizations operate and make decisions. Many employers adopted this...

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2023 Employment Law Changes Important in 2024 - The year 2023 brought about significant shifts in the employment law landscape, impacting how organizations navigate the complex web of regulations governing workplaces....

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The Business Implications of the DOL’s New Independent Contractor Rule - On Jan. 9, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) released a final rule, effective March 11, 2024, revising the agency’s guidance on how to...

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NCCI Experience Modification Factor 2024 Changes FAQs - The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) is making alterations to its experience modification factor for 2024. These changes are slated to go into...

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5 Employment Policies to Review in 2024 - Employee handbooks are important tools for establishing employee expectations, addressing workplace issues and defending against potential lawsuits. Failing to update the...

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Top 2024 Wellness Trends - As the workplace landscape continues to evolve, so does the understanding of employee wellness. In 2024, organizations are embracing innovative strategies to prioritize their workforce's...

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Benefits of Return-to-Work Programs for Employers and Employees - According to the National Safety Council, a worker gets hurt on the job every seven seconds. And when an employee experiences an occupational illness or...

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Data Breach Class Actions Skyrocketed in 2023 - Data breach class action lawsuits “exploded” in 2023, according to Duane Morris LLP’s Class Action Review 2024, becoming one of the fastest growing areas of litigation and...

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New TX Law Prohibits COVID-19 Vaccination Mandates - As of Feb. 6, 2024, a new Texas law prohibits all private employers in the state from adopting or enforcing any COVID-19 vaccination mandates for workers. Covered...

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OSHA Proposes to Issue a New Emergency Response Standard - On Feb. 5, 2024, OSHA published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to issue a new safety and health standard, titled Emergency Response, to replace the...

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Health Care Industry Trends to Watch in 2024 - In recent years, the health care industry has been navigating a landscape fraught with volatility. Shifting market demands, supply chain struggles and medical inflation...

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Live Well, Work Well - January 2024 - How to Make-and Keep-Your New Year’s Resolution - As a new year begins, you may be reflecting on the past year. This introspection is a significant first step toward selecting a New...

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8 Tips for Modernizing Hiring in 2024 - As talent acquisition continues to evolve, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for organizations aiming to attract and retain top-tier talent. Last year highlighted labor...

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OSHA’s Safety and Health Bulletin on Safety Helmets in the Workplace - On Nov. 22, 2023, OSHA provided a Safety and Health Information Bulletin (SHIB) on the use of safety helmets in the workplace. The SHIB provides the...

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OSHA Form 300A Posting Requirements Begin Feb. 1 - The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires employers subject to its recordkeeping requirements to post copies of their OSHA Form 300A between Feb....

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Workplace Fatalities Up 5.7% According to Bureau of Labor Statistics - The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) recently released its 2022 national census of fatal occupational injuries. The census, which represents...

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House Passes Bipartisan Act to Lower Health Care Costs and Increase Price Transparency - On Dec. 11, 2023, the U.S. House of Representatives passed landmark bipartisan legislation to lower the cost of health care and...

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- 2024 Workers’ Compensation Insurance Market Outlook - Profitable underwriting results have generated favorable conditions across the workers’ compensation insurance segment for nearly a decade. According to the...

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Mental Health Minute - January 2024 - Mental Health Benefits of a Clean, Organized Space - If you’re struggling with seasonal affective disorder, anxiety, depression or other mental health issues, keeping your home tidy...

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- OSHA Hazard Identification and Control Program - Purpose - This Hazard Identification and Control Program establishes guidelines and procedures to identify and recognize hazards that are present or could be...

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Responding to the EEOC’s Increased Focus on Mental Health Discrimination - As society’s understanding of mental health continues to grow, so has government acknowledgment and efforts to protect workers with such...

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Understanding, Preventing and Mitigating Workplace Violence - Workplace violence threatens the health and safety of employees, clients and visitors. It affects all industries, regardless of size or location, and its...

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- HHS Increases Civil Penalties for HIPAA Violations - On Oct. 6, 2023, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) published a final rule increasing the civil monetary penalties for violations of the HIPAA ...

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Live Well, Work Well - December 2023 - Managing Financial Stress During the Holidays - If the holiday shopping season stresses you out, you’re not alone. Research by financial services company Bank rate revealed that...

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- Mental Health Minute - December 2023 - Healthy Habits That Can Lower Your Risk of Depression - A recent international study published in the Nature Mental Health journal found that certain lifestyle factors can reduce...

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- Home Care for the Common Cold and Flu - Many people visit the doctor even when they don’t need a doctor’s expertise to diagnose and treat their symptoms. The next time you or someone in your family has a cold or...

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- MGM Cyberattack Emphasizes Need for Layered Digital Defenses - The odds are stacked in favor of increasingly bold and sophisticated cybercriminals, as MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment learned back...

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- November Is American Diabetes Month - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 37 million American adults have diabetes, and 1 in 5 don’t know they have it. Diabetes is a chronic disease...

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NCCI Experience Modification Factor 2024 Changes FAQs - The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) is making alterations to its experience modification factor for 2024. These changes are slated to go into...

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- - EEOC Opens EEO-1 Reporting Portal for 2022 Workforce Data - The portal for private sector employers to submit equal employment opportunity (EEO-1) workforce data from 2022 to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity...

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Employers Must Use New Form I-9 Starting Nov. 1 - Beginning Nov. 1, 2023, employers are required to use the newest version of Form I-9. This form, provided by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Citizenship and...

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- Mental Health Minute - November 2023 - Daylight Saving Time’s Impact on the Brain - Most of the United States alternates between standard and daylight saving time (DST) every year so people can enjoy the daylight more....

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Preparing for the Fall and Winter Virus Season - Fall and winter are when viruses that cause respiratory disease usually circulate more heavily. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, influenza (flu) and respiratory syncytial...

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EEOC Significantly Increased Discrimination Lawsuits in FY 2023 - Preliminary data from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) showed that the agency filed 50% more employment discrimination lawsuits in...

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- - Assessing the Viability of AI as a Self-diagnosis Tool - Artificial intelligence (AI) has created revolutionary advances across many industries. Now, it’s paving its way as a tool to self-diagnose medical conditions...

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- - The Importance of Safety Orientations in Onboarding - Minimizing workplace injuries is vital for businesses across industry lines. Especially as it pertains to new employees, implementing safety orientations in the...

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Leveraging AI in Employment Decisions - Organizations are increasingly utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) in employment-related decisions. According to the Society for Human Resources Management, around 25% of...

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Utilizing a Nurse Triage Program - One of the most significant factors that affect the cost of workers’ compensation claims is the time it takes for a worker to receive medical treatment. It is essential that employees...

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Sleep Matters for Mental Health - When you don’t get enough sleep, not only does it affect your physical health, but it also takes a toll on your mental health. In fact, mental health and sleep are so closely related...

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Best Practices for Board Orientation - The board of directors plays a vital role in maintaining the organizational structure of a company. This elected group oversees the organization’s activities and meets periodically...

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Interstate vs. Intrastate Experience Modification Rating - An experience modification rating (EMR) is a numerical indicator crucial in workers’ compensation insurance. It quantifies an employer’s workplace safety and...

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Safe Driving Tips - Safe driving is a crucial responsibility that impacts not only your well-being but also the safety of everyone on the road. It involves recognizing and mitigating common driving hazards, such as...

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How to Read an Experience Modification Worksheet - An experience modification worksheet, often referred to as an experience rating worksheet or experience mod worksheet, is important in workers’ compensation insurance....

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MGM Cyberattack Emphasizes Need for Layered Defenses - The odds are stacked in favor of increasingly bold and sophisticated cybercriminals, as MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment learned this week,...

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- - How Can Grounding Techniques Help Manage Feelings? - Grounding is a practice that can help you manage experiences such as flashbacks, unwanted memories or negative emotions. These techniques involve focusing on the...

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What to Know About This Year’s Flu Season - Influenza (flu) season lasts from October through May in the United States, with peak flu activity between December and March. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the...

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- - Back Pain Remains the Leading Cause of Disability Worldwide - A new study published in The Lancet Rheumatology medical journal revealed that low back pain remains the leading cause of disability globally. In 2020,...

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- - The Value of Medical Professional Liability Insurance - Medical professional liability (MPL) insurance-also known as medical malpractice insurance-provides essential coverage for health care professionals over...

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- - EEOC Identifies Practices for Preventing Workplace Harassment - The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) recently issued guidance for preventing workplace harassment. Although the report was aimed at...

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- - Assessing the Viability of AI as a Self-diagnosis Tool - Artificial intelligence (AI) has created revolutionary advances across many industries. Now, it’s paving its way as a tool to self-diagnosis medical...

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- - Avoiding Slips, Trips, and Falls in Home Care Settings - Tips for keeping yourself and patients safe in their homes Caring for patients in their homes can offer many benefits; yet, such care also presents safety...

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- - EEOC Issues New Guidance on Visual Disabilities and the ADA - On July 26, 2023, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued new guidance that explains how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)...

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- - Mental Health Minute - September 2023 - The Connection Between Gut and Brain Health - Recent research indicates that the communication between your brain and your gut plays a crucial role in your overall health....

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- - Live Well, Work Well: The Link Between Health and Happiness - In the pursuit of a fulfilling life, happiness is a goal for many. However, happiness is not an isolated concept; it’s complex and connected to your...

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- The Value of Cyber Insurance - As cyberattacks become more frequent and costly, it’s crucial for organizations to maximize their financial protection against related losses by purchasing sufficient insurance. Cyber...

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- - CDC Alerts of Late Summer Surge in COVID-19 Cases - For the fourth summer in a row, the United States is experiencing an increase in COVID-19 cases. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)...

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- New Law Requires Poster on How to Report Workplace Violence - On June 14, 2023, Texas enacted a new law, House Bill (HB) 915, that requires employers to post a notice about how employees may report workplace violence...

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- Impact of Artificial Intelligence and its Impact on Workers' Compensation - Recent years have seen artificial intelligence (AI) surge in popularity. Such technology encompasses machines, computer systems and other...

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Average Data Breach Cost Hits All-time High of $4.4M - According to IBM’s annual Data Breach report, the average cost of a data breach reached an all-time global high of $4.45 million, up 2.3% from 2022 and 15.3% since...

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- 5 Myths About Manual Lifting - Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the leading cause of injury in the health care field. These injuries occur in large part due to overexertion related to repeated manual patient-...

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- Improving Your Self-discipline - Self-discipline is an important skill that can enable you to reach personal and professional goals. Developing self-discipline is like strengthening muscles; it can be improved with...

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Legal Update: New Form I-9 Available Aug. 1, 2023, With a Remote Verification Option for E-Verify Users - On July 21, 2023, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a new version of Form I‑9, also...

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- 2023 Workers' Compensation Insurance Midyear Market Outlook - Data from the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) shows that the workers’ compensation insurance market has performed as an outlier in the...

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- Take a Social Media Break for Your Mental Well-being - A Healthline survey recently found that 25% of people say social media negatively impacts their mental well-being, and more than half (53%) believe cutting down...

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- UV Awareness Month - July is Ultraviolet (UV) Awareness Month. This campaign serves as a reminder of the dangers of UV exposure and the importance of sun safety. Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to UV...

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- Avoid Injury - Practice Safe Lifting - Lifting-whether it be patients or heavy medical equipment-is a common activity in a health care setting, and it is often forgotten that there are proper techniques that need to...

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Safety Tips for Exercising Outdoors - As we move into summer, many will want to exercise outdoors to stay active and get some fresh air. That’s great news, as health experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate...

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May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a national campaign designed to raise awareness about mental health issues and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. Mental health issues and mental illness are common....

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When employees leave a company, there is a heightened risk of data theft, which is also known as data leakage or exfiltration. This risk is present whether an employee’s departure is voluntary or not. The consequences...

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Your mental health includes how you think, feel and act, as well as your emotional and social well-being. Mental health can change over time, depending on factors like workload, stress and work-life balance. Mental...

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National Mental Health Awareness Month - May is Mental Health Awareness Month. This national campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of mental health, reduce stigma and promote safe and healthy living...

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Most of us have been personally involved in a minor auto accident. In an attempt to protect ourselves, we might become defensive, or be tempted not to reveal all the facts. Our car insurance agents advise us not to...

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Prior to using a patient lift, it’s essential to properly prepare the environment in which it will be used. If you are using a lift in a residential setting, preparation includes assessing the home’s floor plan and...

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Each year, an estimated 1 million to 3 million U.S. patients suffer from pressure injuries-such as pressure sores, bedsores or pressure ulcers-according to the National Institutes of Health. While some pressure injuries...

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The National Safety Council recognizes April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. This event is intended to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and encourage motorists like you to minimize...

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Managing Seasonal Allergies - According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), allergies are the nation’s sixth-leading cause of chronic illness. Seasonal allergies are an annual nuisance for many...

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Neurodiversity isn’t new, but awareness of it has been gaining mainstream traction in recent years. In 1998, Australian sociologist Judy Singer coined the term “neurodiversity” to recognize that everyone’s brain...

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As a health care employee, you may be responsible for lifting and repositioning patients-especially those who struggle with mobility. In particular, some patients will need assistance moving into and out of their beds....

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Can an employer discipline or terminate an employee who has an open workers’ compensation claim? This is a common question that many employers ask. The answer depends on which state the company is located in, why the...

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You may have noticed that you sneeze and cough more often during certain times of the year. In this case, you may have seasonal allergies. Seasonal allergies are allergy symptoms that occur during specific times of the...

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Increasing Your Nutrient Absorption With Food Pairings - March is recognized as National Nutrition Month, making it a great time to evaluate the food and beverages you’re putting into your body. Did you know that some...

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This type of medical malpractice insurance is intended for those who have a medical exposure for operations that are incidental, but not the major function of their business. Incidental medical malpractice insurance was...

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Not using a seat belt can be very dangerous. You may have incorrect information or assumptions about seat belts. Consider the following myths and facts regarding seat belts and the consequences of not buckling up. Myth:...

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For the unprepared, workers’ compensation (WC) issues can be both confusing and costly. Fortunately for employers, there are ways to actively engage WC issues to influence their outcomes. Through management controls and...

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Over the last few years, employers have been expanding their voluntary benefits offerings as a way to address their employees’ needs and improve overall attraction and retention efforts. While voluntary benefits have...

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The Art of Waking Up Refreshed - Some people wake up ready to take on the day, while others may need more time or a cup of coffee to start their day. Regardless of which camp you’re in, there’s an art and a science to...

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Regular exercise is one of the best things you can do for yourself. It can improve your overall health, help you manage your weight, prevent adverse health outcomes and boost your mental health. Unfortunately, only 1 in...

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The winter months are notorious for bringing sickness. Influenza (flu) season begins in October and peaks between December and February. Colds are also more common during the season. Further adding to the mix of...

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Cyber incidents-including data breaches, ransomware attacks and social engineering scams-have become increasingly prevalent, impacting organizations of all sizes and industries. Such incidents have largely been brought...

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Don’t Forget; It’s National Blood Donor Month - Winter is one of the most challenging times of the year to collect enough blood products and donations to meet patient needs. That’s why National Blood Donor Month is...

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UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RSV, FLU AND COVID-19 - Health experts warn of a “tripledemic” surge this winter as Americans face the threat of severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza (flu) and COVID-...

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Helpful tips for reducing your risk of strains and sprains - Over six million injuries occur in the workplace every year. Sprains, strains and tears to muscles and connective tissues are some of the most common injuries...

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When is a Workers’ Compensation Claim Compensable? - Carefully evaluating workers’ compensation claims is crucial in helping your company save money and prevent fraud. Workers’ compensation is simply a form of insurance...

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According to Microsoft research, nearly half of employees have reported that they are burnt out at work. The World Health Organization defines burnout as a syndrome resulting from workplace stress that has not been...

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OSHA announced its preliminary list of the top 10 most frequently cited workplace safety standards for fiscal year 2022. Since OSHA’s fiscal year doesn’t end until Sept. 30-and this list was published prior to this date-...

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Prioritizing Your Emotional Well-Being During the Holidays - While the holiday season and end-of-year parties can be full of festive fun, they can also be stressful and take a toll on your emotional well-being. Putting...

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While physical exercise is known to be good for your body, it also can help your mind. Research continues to validate that exercise can improve mental health by reducing anxiety, depression and a negative mood. When you...

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Because of age or incapacitation due to illness or injury, patients in health care settings often need help performing normal daily tasks like sitting up or walking. Helping patients with these tasks requires...

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Vehicle Safety Precautions for Emergency Responders - Emergency vehicle drivers are an essential component in saving the lives of others, as they are responsible for driving the truck that carries all equipment and...

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Understanding FMLA Leave for Mental Health Conditions - Mental health is a growing concern in the workplace. Over the past few years, many employees have experienced mental health issues, such as burnout, depression,...

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How to Recession-proof Your life - Many Americans and economists think rising inflation issues, interest rates and housing costs may be warning signs of a looming recession. According to a Bankrate poll, nearly 7 in 10...

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Staying Safe from Falling Objects - Objects falling from above can pose a serious danger. While this type of hazard might typically be associated with construction businesses, health care facilities face similar dangers....

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5 Things to Consider When Selecting a Health Plan Changing health plans is a major decision for any employer, regardless of size. Not only is health insurance a costly commitment, it also impacts recruitment...

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FDA Approves Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid - Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) finalized a rule establishing a new category of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids for people age 18 and older with mild to...

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Unfortunately, some people who test positive for COVID-19 can experience long-term effects from their infection, known as “long COVID-19.” The effects of long COVID-19 can vary; individuals may experience mild symptoms...

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What to Know About This Year’s Flu Season - Influenza (flu) season lasts from October through May in the United States, with peak flu activity happening between December and March. The country’s flu activity has been...

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As cyber attacks become more and more common, protecting your data is increasingly difficult. In fact, a study from Juniper Research found that by 2023, cyber criminals are expected to steal an estimated 33 billion...

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Reports Show 2022 Wages Increasing Near the Pace of Inflation - According to HR services provider ADP, salaries have been rising rapidly, nearly on par with inflation. Year-over-year pay raises increased by 7.6% leading...

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- Five Strategies for Reducing Workers’ Compensation Costs - When a company experiences significant increases in workers’ compensation costs, it usually triggers internal activities aimed at reducing insurance costs and...

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DHS Proposes Permanent Rule Allowing Remote Verification of Form I-9 Documents - The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement have recently proposed a permanent rule to...

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Legal Update: Final Rule Implements Ban on Surprise Medical Billing - On Aug. 19, 2022, the Departments of Labor (DOL), Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Treasury (Departments) jointly released a final rule...

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The Art of Mindful Eating - Taking time to be mindful of your eating process and not focusing on restricting calories could enhance your awareness of the experience, improve your relationship with food and help you lose...

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“Deep work” is a trendy buzzword swirling around the productivity conversation. But what is it? Deep work is someone’s ability to work in a state of peak concentration and focus for a long period of time without...

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Legislation surrounding the gig economy, single-payer health insurance and marijuana legalization all have the potential to impact the U.S. workers’ compensation system, according to a National Council on Compensation...

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Not only is your physical health affected when you don’t get enough sleep, but it also takes a toll on your mental health. In fact, mental health and sleep are so closely related that a lack of sleep can often lead to...

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Temporary workers (TWs) employed by a host employer (HE) through a staffing company (SC) can create unique occupational safety and health concerns. Since the work arrangements for TWs tend to be nonstandard short- and...

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In its recent spring regulatory agenda, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced its plans to issue a proposed overtime rule in October 2022. According to the agency’s regulatory agenda, this proposed rule is...

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988: America's First Three-digit Mental Health Crisis Line - The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (Lifeline) launched nationwide on July 16. Similar to dialing 911 for medical emergencies, people in emotional distress or...

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By implementing workplace health initiatives, many companies are taking proactive measures to help with decreasing health issues affecting their employees. This is particularly important because of the following: The...

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Medication errors and adverse drug events are areas of high risk across the healthcare spectrum. Despite a diverse range of interventions over the years, issues related to medication safety still prove challenging for...

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Technological advancements in healthcare have helped improve access to, options for, and convenience of care. Healthcare delivered via telecommunication technology (telehealth), has become an increasingly popular and...

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- The Benefits of Seasonal Produce - In today’s supermarket, it’s normal to see the same produce available year-round. However, that doesn’t mean the quality always remains the same. Eating seasonally means you are...

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Preventing injury and illness on the job is something all employees should take seriously-nothing less than your future is at stake. An on-the-job accident, infection or serious illness could very easily disable you,...

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Workplace impairment can be caused by a number of underlying factors. Key contributors of workplace impairment are employee fatigue, stress, and substance abuse. This infographic highlights the role mental health plays...

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The workers’ compensation sector of the commercial insurance industry is generally a stable and profitable segment. However, the claims in this market have become costlier, with concerns over severity on the rise. While...

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Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are a leading cause of workplace injury and cost billions each year in workers’ compensation and lost productivity. This infographic briefly discusses the prevalence of musculoskeletal...

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The purpose of National Safety Month is to spread safety awareness to help prevent workplace injuries and fatalities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 4,764 occupational fatalities and 2.7 million work-...

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- EWG Releases 2022 Dirty Dozen List - Every year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) releases a report ranking pesticide residue levels of fruits and vegetables based on samples taken by the U.S. Department of...

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In recent years, advocacy groups, researchers, healthcare providers, and others have raised awareness and understanding about diagnostic errors, drawing attention to the profound effect that these mistakes have on...

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Electronic health records (EHRs) have had a significant impact on documentation processes and workflow patterns in healthcare, but the results have not always been positive. Common complaints associated with EHRs...

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According to a new report, telehealth usage grew more than 7,000% during the first year of the pandemic. FAIR Health’s annual report studies health care indicators, prices and utilization trends. With the latest data,...

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- Collaborating With Healthcare Staff to Improve Patient Safety, Adherence, and Satisfaction - Healthcare staff members play an essential role in patient safety as well as patient satisfaction as they interact with...

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- Elevating Your Psychological Resiliency - Psychological resilience refers to the ability to mentally withstand or adapt to uncertainty and adversity. Building resilience to life’s inevitable changes and challenges can...

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Technology has created opportunities for physicians, dentists, and other healthcare practitioners to extend the reach of their professional practice beyond the physical limitations of their practice settings. Through...

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The National Safety Council recognizes April as Distracted Driving Awareness Month. This event is intended to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and encourage motorists like you to minimize...

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Spring can bring about some of the year’s most dangerous weather and wreak havoc on many aspects of a company’s operations. This article discusses the weather threats to watch out for during spring and measures...

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- Nip Seasonal Allergies in the Bud - More than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies every year. In particular, springtime allergies are an annual nuisance for many people. As plants begin to bloom and neighbors...

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On March 22, 2022, OSHA partially reopened the rule-making record and scheduled an informal public hearing to seek comments on specific topics that relate to the development of a final standard to protect health care...

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Altering documentation in patient records can have serious consequences, including allegations of fraud and professional misconduct - and it also can make malpractice claims difficult to defend. Yet, mistakes happen and...

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The health and safety of your residents should be your top priority, so it is important that your facility is proactive in ensuring that the proper fire safety precautions are in place. According to USA Today, more than...

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Diagnostic errors are a common, yet harmful and costly issue in healthcare. They are estimated to affect 12 million Americans every year,1 and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) note...

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- Understanding Your Kidney Health - March is National Kidney Month, making it a great time to take charge of your health to lower your chances of developing kidney disease. Your kidneys filter your blood to remove...

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Polypharmacy is a serious concern among adults, and especially among seniors. Although polypharmacy is preventable, it is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality.1 Polypharmacy is generally defined as...

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Many healthcare providers and staff members find that text messaging provides quick access to the information they need to make healthcare decisions and is a convenient method for communicating with other providers and...

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- - Data Breaches Rose 68% in 2021, Hitting a New High With No Signs of Slowing - According to the Identity Theft Resource Center’s (ITRC) annual report-which advocated for more effective laws and regulations to better...

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Reducing Your Stress During American Heart Month - According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. In fact, half of all Americans are...

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Keeping outdoor walking surfaces-such as parking lots and sidewalks-clear of ice in the winter is a crucial practice at many workplaces. Not only does ice removal offer aesthetic benefits, it can also help keep you,...

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Losing control of a car is undoubtedly one of the most frightening experiences behind the wheel. Unfortunately, it is a potential side effect when the temperatures turn frigid and the roads get slick with ice or snow....

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Working to minimize medication errors and adverse drug events (ADEs) is a worthwhile goal for healthcare practices. Eliminating all errors and ADEs, however, is unlikely due to the fast-paced nature of the healthcare...

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The Department of Labor has (DOL) released its 2022 inflation-adjusted civil monetary penalties that may be assessed on employers for violations of a wide range of federal laws, including the Occupational Safety and...

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On Jan. 13, 2022, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) ruled to stay the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) vaccination and testing emergency temporary standard (ETS). The ETS was...

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On Jan. 10, 2022, the Depts. of Labor, Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Treasury issued FAQ guidance regarding the requirements for group health plans and health insurance issuers to cover over-the-counter (OTC)...

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- - With a turn of the calendar year, 2022 will likely usher in the most significant changes to the HIPAA Privacy Rule in almost a decade. These changes will come on the heels of several years of information-gathering,...

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Unlike other lines of coverage, the market for workers' compensation insurance has remained stable across most states and industries, performing as an outlier by producing profitable underwriting results. According to...

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How to Make - and Keep - Your New Year's Resolution - As the new year approaches, you may find yourself reflecting on the past year. This introspection is a significant first step toward selecting a New Year’s...

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On Dec. 14, 2021, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) issued 14 new answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about what employers may or may not do to comply with federal fair employment laws during...

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Managing Pandemic Related Clinician Burnout - Clinician burnout was prevalent before the COVID-19 pandemic, and it continues as even more workplace hardships and moral dilemmas have arisen. Clinicians have experienced...

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On Friday, Dec. 17, 2021, the 6th Circuit Federal Court of Appeals reinstated the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) federal emergency temporary standard (ETS) for COVID-19. The 6th Circuit decision...

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Winter weather can create various driving challenges. Cold temperatures make it difficult for engines to work properly, while snow limits tire traction and salt causes rust on exterior paint. That’s why it is important...

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Winter months present additional hazards that are typically not factors for employees during warmer weather – specifically, slip and fall concerns. With snow and ice-covered conditions, you run the risk of taking major...

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Medication Prescribing as a Key Area for Safety Improvement in Ambulatory Care - Laura M. Cascella, MA - Medications are a cornerstone of patient care and treatment, and the medication process involves various steps...

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Patient Disregards Physician's Recommendations for Immediate Treatment; Complications Result, Leading to Malpractice Lawsuit - Theodore Passineau, JD, HRM, RPLU, CPHRM, FASHRM - Introduction - Doctors have dealt with...

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- Footwear is an important issue for health care professionals, many of whom spend long stretches of time standing or walking throughout the day. Good footwear is essential to worker comfort, but comfort concerns must...

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- - Preventing Trips and Slips - Helpful tips for health care workers Wet floors, spills and excess clutter can mean disaster for employees working in a health care setting. Injuries caused by slips, trips and falls...

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October 22, 2021 Regulatory Roundup is a weekly compilation of employee wellness and safety news provided by Texas Mutual. You can read the full article by clicking the titles below. The National Safety Council (NSC) ...

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October 15, 2021 Regulatory Roundup is a weekly compilation of employee wellness and safety news provided by Texas Mutual. You can read the full article by clicking the titles below. The Occupational Safety and Health...

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- - Protecting Patient Data by Preventing Cyber Attacks - The threat of a data breach in a health care facility is daunting. Privacy is the foundation of hospitals’ information systems, and compliance with the Health...

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- - Cyber Security for Medical Devices and Hospital Networks - Many medical devices contain configurable embedded computer systems that can be vulnerable to cyber-security breaches. In addition, as medical devices are...

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October 8, 2021 Regulatory Roundup is a weekly compilation of employee wellness and safety news provided by Texas Mutual. You can read the full article by clicking the titles below. The Texas Department of Insurance (...

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October 1, 2021 Regulatory Roundup is a weekly compilation of employee wellness and safety news provided by Texas Mutual. You can read the full article by clicking the titles below. The National Institute for...

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September 24, 2021 Regulatory Roundup is a weekly compilation of employee wellness and safety news provided by Texas Mutual. You can read the full article by clicking the titles below. The Occupational Safety and Health...

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September 20, 2021 Regulatory Roundup is a weekly compilation of employee wellness and safety news provided by Texas Mutual. You can read the full article by clicking the titles below. The American Society of Safety...

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Because of age or incapacitation due to illness or injury, patients in health care settings often need help performing normal daily tasks like sitting up or walking. Helping patients with these tasks requires...

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August 27, 2021 Regulatory Roundup is a weekly compilation of employee wellness and safety news provided by Texas Mutual. You can read the full article by clicking the titles below. The Occupational Safety and Health...

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August 20, 2021 Regulatory Roundup is a weekly compilation of employee wellness and safety news provided by Texas Mutual. You can read the full article by clicking the titles below. The Occupational Safety and Health...

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August 13, 2021 Regulatory Roundup is a weekly compilation of employee wellness and safety news provided by Texas Mutual. You can read the full article by clicking the titles below. The Texas Department of Insurance,...

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August 6, 2021 Regulatory Roundup is a weekly compilation of employee wellness and safety news provided by Texas Mutual. You can read the full article by clicking the titles below. The Occupational Safety and Health...

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Protecting Employees and Patients from Communicable Diseases - Communicable diseases present a unique risk in health care facilities. Aside from your duty to your patients, you also have the important responsibility of...

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July 30, 2021 Regulatory Roundup is a weekly compilation of employee wellness and safety news provided by Texas Mutual. You can read the full article by clicking the titles below. The Occupational Safety and Health...

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July 23, 2021 Regulatory Roundup is a weekly compilation of employee wellness and safety news provided by Texas Mutual. You can read the full article by clicking the titles below. The Occupational Safety and Health...

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July 16, 2021 Regulatory Roundup is a weekly compilation of employee wellness and safety news provided by Texas Mutual. You can read the full article by clicking the titles below. The Occupational Safety and Health...

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Just one bad fall on ice can have long-term consequences. Pay attention to the weather and stay inside to avoid icy hazards when you can. When you do venture out, walking in winter requires special attention to avoid...

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