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Cyber Risks & Liabilities: The Importance of Data Backup and Recovery Plans for Businesses

The Importance of Data Backup and Recovery Plans for Businesses - In modern businesses, data is central to operations, customer management and decision-making. It is so integral to organizations that data loss from...

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Cyber Risks & Liabilities: MFA Bypass Attacks Explained

MFA Bypass Attacks Explained - Multifactor authentication (MFA) is an integral component of cybersecurity. By requiring additional steps to access data, information is more secure and harder to steal. However,...

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HR Compliance Bulletin: Legal Considerations for Employee Terminations

Legal Considerations for Employee Terminations - Employee terminations are often complicated, and if not conducted properly, employers can open themselves up to costly legal challenges and negatively affect their...

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Compliance Bulletin: ​Mental Health Parity: New Comparative Analyses Requirements

Mental Health Parity: New Comparative Analyses Requirements - On Sept. 9, 2024, the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and the Treasury (Departments) released a final rule to strengthen the requirements of...

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Live Well, Work Well: Preparing for the 2024-25 Flu Season

Preparing for the 2024-25 Flu Season - Experts predict that the United States may have another early start to the influenza (flu) season this year. When colder weather arrives, flu rates typically increase, peaking...

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Legal Update: EEOC Releases 2024 Litigation Data, Showing a Decrease in Lawsuits

EEOC Releases 2024 Litigation Data, Showing a Decrease in Lawsuits - On Oct. 9, 2024, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) released litigation data for fiscal year (FY) 2024, which covers Oct. 1, 2023,...

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News Brief: OSHA Announces Top 10 Violations for 2024

OSHA Announces Top 10 Violations for 2024 - OSHA recently revealed its top 10 most frequently cited standards in the 2024 fiscal year using preliminary data. This information is valuable for businesses of all kinds, as...

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Live Well, Work Well : November 2024

Fall Into Mindfulness - The changing seasons can help you prioritize your physical, emotional and mental health by presenting the opportunity to start new routines or cut out unhealthy habits. Autumn is a great time to...

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Mental Health Minute: November 2024

Practicing Gratitude In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in stress and negativity. However, practicing gratitude can be a powerful tool to improve mental health. Gratitude involves recognizing and...

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Risk Insights: Best Practices for Safety Committees

Best Practices for Safety Committees - A safety committee is crucial for creating and maintaining a safe workplace culture. These committees bring together employees, management and safety professionals to proactively...

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Mental Health Minute: October 2024

World Mental Health Day: Take Action - World Mental Health Day, observed annually on Oct. 10, is a global initiative to raise awareness about mental health issues and mobilize efforts to support mental well-being....

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Live Well, Work Well: What to Know About This Year’s Flu Season

What to Know About This Year’s Flu Season - In the United States, influenza (flu) season lasts from October through May, with peak flu activity between December and March. What’s more, flu season in the Southern...

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Legal Update: OSHA Propose Heat Injury & Illness

OSHA Proposes Heat Injury and Illness Prevention Standard - On Aug. 30, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) published a notice of proposed rulemaking in the...

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Risk Insights: A Corporate Boards Guide to Generative AI Benefits and Risks

A Corporate Board’s Guide to Generative AI Benefits and Risks - As generative artificial intelligence (AI) advances, corporate boards are increasingly leveraging its capabilities to improve several aspects of their...

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Legal Update: OSHA Releases New Online Severe Injury Report Dashboard

OSHA Releases New Online Severe Injury Report Dashboard - On Sept. 4, 2024, OSHA released an online tool giving users the ability to search its severe injury report (SIR) database and view trends related to workplace...

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Legal Update: Final Rule Makes Extensive Changes to Mental Health Parity Requirements

Final Rule Makes Extensive Changes to Mental Health Parity Requirements - On Sept. 9, 2024, the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and the Treasury (Departments) released a final rule to strengthen the...

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HR Insights: Employee Handbooks: Common Legal Mistakes

Employee Handbooks: Common Legal Mistakes - Your employee handbook is an important document. Not only does it help employees understand company policies, promote solid company-employee communication and set a consistent...

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Cyber Risks & Liabilities: Understanding Cybercriminals: Motivations, Methods and Protection Strategies

Understanding Cybercriminals: Motivations, Methods and Protection Strategies - Cyberattacks can impact a company in numerous ways. They can create significant financial losses through fines, lawsuits and business...

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Coverage Insights: Understanding Employers’ Liability Insurance

Understanding Employers’ Liability Insurance - Accidents can happen in any workplace, and they often result in employee injuries and illnesses. These events can pose serious consequences for both employers and their...

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Coverage Insights: Contingent Business Interruption Insurance for Cyber Events

Contingent Business Interruption Insurance for Cyber Events - In today’s evolving risk landscape, organizations of all sizes and sectors face a wide range of cyberthreats. Amid advancing attack techniques and growing...

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HR Compliance Bulletin: 2024 Midyear Employment Law Compliance Trends

2024 Midyear Employment Law Compliance Trends - Throughout 2024, there have been significant changes in employment law at the federal, state and local levels. A review of recent and proposed legislation reveals a number...

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HR Compliance Bulletin: Employer Considerations for Navigating Election Section

Employer Considerations for Navigating Election Section - Election season can be a fraught time for employers. Employers are often faced with the challenge of fostering a culture of open communication while ensuring a...

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Compliance Bulletin: Medicare Part D Notices Are Due Before Oct. 15, 2024

CMS has provided two model notices for employers to use: Medicare Part D Notices Are Due Before Oct. 15, 2024 - Each year, Medicare Part D requires group health plan sponsors to disclose to individuals who are eligible...

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Risk Insights: Steps for Businesses to Create Safer Drivers

Steps for Businesses to Create Safer Drivers - Company drivers are exposed to several risks on the road. In fact, according to a Bureau of Labor Statistics report, transportation incidents are the leading cause of work-...

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HR Insights: Tips for Retaining Employees in 2024

Tips for Retaining Employees in 2024 - Around 27% of U.S. workers quit their jobs in 2023, which, according to a common turnover calculation, cost employers nearly a trillion dollars to replace. Unfortunately, turnover...

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News Brief: Drug Test Cheating Surged in 2023

Drug Test Cheating Surged in 2023 - The rate of employees tampering with drug tests reached new highs in 2023, according to a report from health data analytics firm Quest Diagnostics. The percentage of tests that showed...

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Live Well, Work Well: Managing Work-Life Balance During Return To School

Managing Work-Life Balance During Return To School - For working parents with school-age kids, the back-to-school season can be chaotic. There are new routines to figure out, an onslaught of activities to manage and...

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Live Well, Work Well: Prioritizing Wellness During The 2024-25 School Year

Prioritizing Wellness During The 2024-25 School Year - Many parents and kids may be excited for school to start after a long summer. However, the new school year may come with new or recurring challenges. Working...

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Legal Update: Court Denies FMLA for Unmarried Father Before Child's Birth

Court Denies FMLA for Unmarried Father Before Child's Birth - The 11th Circuit Court of Appeals recently held in Tanner v. Stryker Corp. that an unmarried employee who traveled to be with his pregnant ex-girlfriend for...

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Cyber Risks & Liabilities: The Role of a Public Relations Specialist in Cyber Incident Response

The Role of a Public Relations Specialist in Cyber Incident Response - When cyber incidents strike, organizations need to respond swiftly and effectively to limit related losses. As such, it’s crucial for organizations...

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News Brief: Regulators Cite Major Gaps in Consumer Understanding of Insurance

Regulators Cite Major Gaps in Consumer Understanding of Insurance - More than a third of Gen Z adults buy protection plans for their cellphones, but just 21% have renters insurance, according to a survey from the...

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Cyber Risks & Liabilities : The Role of Digital Forensics and Incident Response in Cybersecurity

The Role of Digital Forensics and Incident Response in Cybersecurity - As the cybersecurity landscape evolves and cybercriminals continue to develop new ways to infiltrate computer systems and networks, employers must...

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Cyber Risks & Liabilities: SIM-Swapping Attacks Explained

SIM-Swapping Attacks Explained - In recent years, a growing number of organizations have implemented stronger cybersecurity measures, including multifactor authentication (MFA). This method requires a user to present...

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Legal Update: DOL Updated Model Employer CHIP Notice

DOL Updates Model Employer CHIP Notice - The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), through its Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA), has released a new model Employer CHIP Notice with information current as of ...

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Legal Update: USCIS Extends Form I-9 Expiration Date

USCIS Extends Form I-9 Expiration Date - On Aug. 2, 2024, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that it updated its Employment Eligibility Verification form, also known as Form I-9, to extend...

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Live Well, Work Well : September 2024

Cholesterol and You - Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your blood that your body needs to build cells; however, too much can pose a problem. Cholesterol travels through the blood on proteins called lipoproteins....

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Mental Health Minute: September 2024

Many Americans Remain Unfamiliar With 988 - The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (988 Lifeline) was launched nationwide in July 2022. The three-digit dialing code replaced the original 1-800 number to make it easier to...

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Legal Update: Increased Civil Penalty Amounts for SBC, MSP, HIPAA Violations

Increased Civil Penalty Amounts for SBC, MSP, HIPAA Violations - On Aug. 8, 2024, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) published a final rule increasing key penalties affecting group health plans. HHS...

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HR Compliance Bulletin: 2024 Midyear Employment Law Compliance Trends

2024 Midyear Employment Law Compliance Trends - Throughout 2024, there have been significant changes in employment law at the federal, state and local levels. A review of recent and proposed legislation reveals a number...

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Mental Health Minute: August 2024

Zoning Out: The Signs, Causes and When to Get Help - “Zoning out” is a mild and common form of dissociation. Nearly everyone does it from time to time. Zoning out can serve as a coping mechanism when you are bored,...

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Live Well, Work Well: The Health Benefits of Camping

The Health Benefits of Camping - Millions of Americans enjoy camping each year, especially as temperatures rise and days get longer in the summer. Moreover, interest among noncampers has been growing steadily for years....

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News Brief: OSHA's Safe and Sound Week Scheduled for Aug. 12-18

OSHA’s Safe and Sound Week Scheduled for Aug. 12-18 - Each year, more than 5,000 workers are killed on the job. Additionally, more than 3.6 million employees are seriously injured each year while at work. Because of...

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Legal Update: OSHA Proposes Heat Injury & Illness Prevention Standard

OSHA Proposes Heat Injury & Illness Prevention Standard - On July 2, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced an unofficial version of the proposed ...

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Legal Update: Federal Courts Block Enforcement of Certain Section 1557 Nondiscrimination Provisions

Federal Courts Block Enforcement of Certain Section 1557 Nondiscrimination Provisions - On April 26, 2024, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Civil Rights (OCR) issued a final rule under...

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Cyber Risks & Liabilities: The Role of a Data Breach Coach in Cyber Incident Response

The Role of a Data Breach Coach in Cyber Incident Response - Cybersecurity events can lead to businesses sustaining substantial financial and reputational damage. Recovering from these incidents can also be complicated...

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News Brief: CVSA’s Brake Safety Week Scheduled for Aug. 25-31

CVSA’s Brake Safety Week Scheduled for Aug. 25-31 - The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) recently scheduled this year’s Brake Safety Week for Aug. 25-31, 2024. This annual event aims to emphasize the importance...

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Coverage Insights: The Importance of Timely Notice Under Claims-made Liability Policies

The Importance of Timely Notice Under Claims-made Liability Policies - Claims-made liability policies require timely notice of claims or circumstances that could lead to a claim for an insured to qualify for coverage....

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Work Comp Insights: FMLA and Workers’ Compensation

FMLA and Workers’ Compensation – Common Questions Answered - The federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and state workers’ compensation laws may both cover an employee who suffers a serious health condition while...

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Work Comp Insights: Who to Communicate With During a Workers’ Compensation Claim

Who to Communicate With During a Workers’ Compensation Claim - Simply put, communicating with all relevant parties involved in workers’ compensation claims (e.g., employees, supervisors, medical providers and claims...

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2024 Midyear Market Outlook: Workers Compensation Insurance

Workers Compensation Insurance - Profitable underwriting results have generated favorable conditions across the workers’ compensation insurance market for nearly a decade. According to the National Council on...

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2024 Midyear Market Outlook: Cyber Insurance

Cyber Insurance - Heightened claim frequency and severity have created a volatile cyber insurance market in recent years, with most policyholders facing ongoing premium increases. Fortunately, the segment experienced...

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Live Well, Work, Well: August 2024

PRIORITIZING SUN SAFETY - While the warmth of the sun can enhance the enjoyment of outdoor activities (e.g., hiking, swimming and grilling), it comes with hidden dangers that can impact your health in both the short and...

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HR Compliance Overview: Federal Youth Employment Laws

Federal Youth Employment Law - The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) oversees and enforces federal youth employment laws through the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Under the FLSA, employers are prohibited from employing “...

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HR Compliance Bulletin: DOL Prioritizes Enforcement of Youth Employment Laws

DOL Prioritizes Enforcement of Youth Employment Laws - The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) oversees and enforces federal youth employment laws through the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The FLSA prohibits organizations...

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Live Well, Work Well: Surviving the Summer Heat

SURVIVING THE SUMMER HEAT - Summer brings longer days and plenty of sunshine, but with it comes the challenge of staying cool amidst soaring temperatures. The sweltering heat can lead to various heat-related illnesses,...

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Cyber Risks & Liabilities: Defending AI Systems From Malicious Data Poisoning Attacks

Defending AI Systems From Malicious Data Poisoning Attacks - As the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) continues to grow, businesses that utilize these technologies must also be aware of the...

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News Brief: Workers’ Compensation System Shows Financial Strength and Lower Claim Frequency

Workers’ Compensation System Shows Financial Strength and Lower Claim Frequency - The performance of the workers’ compensation system remains strong, according to a new State of the Line Report from the National Council...

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Legal Update: OSHA Publishes Its Updated Hazard Communication Standard

OSHA Publishes Its Updated Hazard Communication Standard - On May 20, 2024, OSHA published its final rule on its Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) to conform to the United Nations’ Globally Harmonized System of...

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Legal Update: HHS Updates HIPAA FAQs Regarding Change Healthcare Cybersecurity Incident

HHS Updates HIPAA FAQs Regarding Change Healthcare Cybersecurity Incident - On May 31, 2024, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) updated its frequently asked questions (...

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Legal Update: DOL Issues Gag Clause Attestation Resources for 2024

DOL Issues Gag Clause Attestation Resources for 2024 - On May 24, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) issued various resources to assist health plans and health insurance issuers in annually submitting their...

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Legal Update: 3rd Circuit Rules USERRA May Require Paid Leave

- 3rd Circuit Rules USERRA May Require Paid Leave - On May 21, 2024, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 3rd Circuit held that short-term military leave may be comparable to jury duty leave and bereavement leave and...

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Legal Update: DOJ Releases Proposed Rule to Ease Federal Restrictions on Marijuana

DOJ Releases Proposed Rule to Ease Federal Restrictions on Marijuana - On May 16, 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced a proposed rule that would reschedule marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III...

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Legal Update: PCORI Fees Due July 31, 2024

PCORI Fees Due July 31, 2024 - The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires health insurance issuers and self-insured plan sponsors to pay Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute fees (PCORI fees). The fees are reported...

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Mental Health Minute: July 2024

Combating Summertime Stressors - Many people experience better mental health and mood during the summer due to longer days and sunlight. Yet the season is stressful for others; summertime stressors and extreme weather...

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Live Well, Work Well: July 2024

Beat the Summer Heat - Summer heat can be more than uncomfortable; it can threaten your health, especially for older adults and children. Hot and humid weather can make it more challenging for your body to cool down,...

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News Brief: CVSA Reveals 2024 Focus for Upcoming Operation Safe Driver Week

CVSA Reveals 2024 Focus for Upcoming Operation Safe Driver Week - Operation Safe Driver Week-an annual campaign conducted by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA)-will take place from July 7-13, 2024. This year’...

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Legal Update: EEOC Announces July 9 “Failure to File” Deadline for 2023 EEO-1 Reports

EEOC Announces July 9 “Failure to File” Deadline for 2023 EEO-1 Reports - On June 5, 2024, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced that it had entered the “Failure to File” phase for EEO-1...

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News Brief: June is National Safety Month

June is National Safety Month - June is National Safety Month. This campaign, put together by the National Safety Council (NSC), highlights efforts to prevent injuries and deaths inside and outside the workplace. It...

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Legal Update: DOL Issues Guidance on AI-related Wage and Hour Risks

DOL Issues Guidance on AI-related Wage and Hour Risks - On April 29, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Wage and Hour Division (WHD) published Field Assistance Bulletin (FAB) No. 2024-1 on the use of artificial...

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News Brief: Workers’ Compensation System Shows Financial Strength and Lower Claim Frequency

Workers’ Compensation System Shows Financial Strength and Lower Claim Frequency - The performance of the workers’ compensation system remains strong, according to a new State of the Line Report from the National Council...

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Mental Health Minute: June 2024

The Power of Self-care - Self-care is the practice of intentionally engaging in activities that positively impact mental, physical and emotional well-being. It directly correlates to mental health, as self-care...

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Live Well, Work Well: Explore the Great Outdoors

Explore the Great Outdoors - Spending even a few moments outside daily can significantly improve your physical health by reducing muscle tension, regulating sleep and improving your work performance. Experiencing the...

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HR Compliance Bulletin: Overview of the EEOC's workplace Guidance to Prevent Harassment

Overview of the EEOC's workplace Guidance to Prevent Harassment - On April 29, 2024, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) published its final guidance on harassment in the workplace, which went into...

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Cyber Risks & Liabilities: Cybersecurity Awareness Programs: Benefits and Implementation

Cybersecurity Awareness Programs: Benefits and Implementation - Businesses of all sizes are susceptible to cyberattacks such as phishing scams, malware attacks and ransomware schemes, which can create significant...

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News Brief: Casualty Claims Severity Significantly Outpacing Economic Inflation

Casualty Claims Severity Significantly Outpacing Economic Inflation - Claims costs for commercial auto, professional liability, product liability and directors and officers liability insurance have exceeded economic...

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Legal Update: OSHA Releases Its Injury Tracking Application 2023 Injury and Illness Data

OSHA Releases Its Injury Tracking Application 2023 Injury and Illness Data - On April 18, 2024, OSHA released the 2023 injury and illness data collected under the Improved Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illness...

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Compliance Bulletin: New HIPAA Rule Will Require Updates to Privacy Notices

New HIPAA Rule Will Require Updates to Privacy Notices - On April 26, 2024, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a final rule that strengthens the HIPAA Privacy Rule by prohibiting the...

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ACA Compliance Overview: HHS’ FAQs on Section 1557 Nondiscrimination Final Rule

HHS’ FAQs on Section 1557 Nondiscrimination Final Rule - Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability in certain health programs...

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HR Compliance Bulletin: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About the DOL’s Final Overtime Rule

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About the DOL’s Final Overtime Rule - On April 23, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced a final rule to amend current requirements employees in white-collar...

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HR Compliance Bulletin: DOL Issues Guidance on AI and FMLA Administration

DOL Issues Guidance on AI and FMLA Administration - The Wage and Hour Division (WHD) of the U.S. Department of Labor recently published a Field Assistance Bulletin (FAB) warning that the use of artificial intelligence (...

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Legal Update: DOL Announces Final Overtime Rule Increasing Salary Levels for White-collar Employees

DOL Announces Final Overtime Rule Increasing Salary Levels for White-collar Employees - On April 23, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced a final rule to amend current requirements employees in white-...

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Legal Update: HHS Finalizes Rule to Strengthen Reproductive Health Care Privacy

- - HHS Finalizes Rule to Strengthen Reproductive Health Care Privacy - The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has issued a final rule that strengthens the HIPAA Privacy Rule by prohibiting the...

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Compliance Bulletin: Mental Health Parity Compliance Remains a Key Focus in 2024

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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News Brief: Study Shows 40% of Insured Workers Delay Health Care Due to Costs

- 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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Legal Update: U.S. Supreme Court Rules That Mandatory Job Transfer Can Be Discriminatory Under Title VII

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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Work Comp Insights : How Return-to-Work Programs Impact Workers’ Compensation Expenses

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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Live Well, Work Well : Breaking Down Mental Health Stigma

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 Minute: May 2024

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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Benefits Insights: Health​ Care Costs and Your Employee Health Plan

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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Legal Update: EEOC Releases Final Rule Implementing Pregnant Workers Fairness Act

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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HR Brief: May 2024

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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Cyber Risks & Liabilities: ​Cloud Security Management Explained

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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HR Compliance Bulletin: Preparing for the DOL’s New Overtime Rule

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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Compliance Overview: OSHA’s Worker Walkaround Designation Process Frequently Asked Questions

- 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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Legal Update: OSHA Announces Final Rule on Worker Walkaround Representative Designation

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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Legal Update: HHS Encourages Urgent Review of HIPAA Compliance Following Health Care Cyberattack

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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HR Compliance: What Employers Should Know About EEO Retaliation

- 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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HR Compliance: U.S. Supreme Court Cases for Employers to Watch in 2024

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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Work Comp Insights: Types of Transitional Duties in Return-to-Work Programs

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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News Brief: ​April Is Distracted Driving Awareness Month

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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Mental Health Minute - April 2024

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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Live Well, Work Well - April 2024

- 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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Legal Update: FMCSA Exempts 9- and 15-passenger Vans From Operating Authority Requirements

- 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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News Brief: Change Healthcare Cyberattack Causes Unprecedented Disruptions

- 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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HR Compliance Bulletin: New CDC Isolation Guidance and Employee Leave Considerations

- 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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Legal Update: HHS Highlights HIPAA Violations and Breaches in Annual Reports

- - 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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HR Compliance Overview: DOL Independent Contractor Rule

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

- 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

- 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

- 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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HR Insights: 4 Ways AI Will Impact the Workplace in 2024

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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HR Insights: 2023 Employment Law Changes Important in 2024

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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HR Insights: The Business Implications of the DOL’s New Independent Contractor Rule

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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Work Comp Insights: NCCI Experience Modification Factor 2024 Changes FAQs

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

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

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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Work Comp Insights: Benefits of Return-to-Work Programs for Employers and Employees

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 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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Legal Update: New TX Law Prohibits COVID-19 Vaccination Mandates

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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Legal Update: OSHA Proposes to Issue a New Emergency Response Standard

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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Risk Insights: Health Care Industry Trends to Watch in 2024

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

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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HR Insights: 8 Tips for Modernizing Hiring in 2024

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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Legal Update: OSHA’s Safety and Health Bulletin on Safety Helmets in the Workplace

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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Legal Update: OSHA Form 300A Posting Requirements Begin Feb. 1

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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News Brief: Workplace Fatalities Up 5.7% According to Bureau of Labor Statistics

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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News Brief: House Passes Bipartisan Act to Lower Health Care Costs and Increase Price Transparency

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

- 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 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

- 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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HR Insights: Responding to the EEOC’s Increased Focus on Mental Health Discrimination

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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Risk Insights: Understanding, Preventing and Mitigating Workplace Violence

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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Penalties for HIPPA Violations Increase


HHS Increases Civil Penalties for HIPAA Violations

- 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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OSHA's Top 10 Most Frequently Cited - 2023


Live Well, Work Well - December 2023

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

- 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

- 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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Cyber Risks & Liability: MGM Cyberattack Emphasizes Need for Layered Digital Defenses

- 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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DOT Accidents - What is reportable?


Live Well, Work Well - November 2023

- 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

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

- - 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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News Brief: Employers Must Use New Form I-9 Starting Nov. 1

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

- 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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HR Insights: Preparing for the Fall and Winter Virus Season

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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News Brief: EEOC Significantly Increased Discrimination Lawsuits in FY 2023

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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Know Your Benefits: Assessing the Viability of AI as a Self-diagnosis Tool

- - 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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Risk Insights: The Importance of Safety Orientations in Onboarding

- - 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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Risk Insights: AI + Employment Decision

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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Work Comp Insights: Utilizing a Nurse Triage Program

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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Think Well, Be Well: Sleep + Mental Health

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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Risk Insights: Board Orientation

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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Work Comp Insights: Interstate vs. Intrastate Experience Modification Rating

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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Safety Matters: Driving Tips

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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Work Comp Insights: Reading an Experience Modification Worksheet

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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Cyber Update: MGM Cyberattack Emphasizes Need for Layered Defenses

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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Mental Health Minute - October 2023

- - 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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Live Well, Work Well - October 2023

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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News Brief: Back Pain Remains the Leading Cause of Disability Worldwide

- - 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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Coverage Insights: The Value of Medical Professional Liability Insurance

- - 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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HR Insights: EEOC Identifies Practices for Preventing Workplace Harassment

- - 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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Know Your Benefits: Assessing the Viability of AI as a Self-diagnosis Tool

- - 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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Playing it Safe: Avoiding Slips, Trips, and Falls in Home Care Settings

- - 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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Legal Update: EEOC Issues New Guidance on Visual Disabilities and the ADA

- - 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

- - 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 - September 2023

- - 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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Cyber Liability: The Value of Cyber Insurance

- 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

- - 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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Legal Update: Workplace Violence Poster Required in Texas

- 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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Work Comp Insights: Impact of AI

- 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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Cyber Update: Average Data Breach Costs $4.4M

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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Risk Insights: 5 Myths About Manual Lifting

- 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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Live Well, Work Well - August 2023

- 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

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

- 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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Mental Health Minute - July

- 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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Live Well, Work Well - July 2023

- 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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Safety Matters: Practice Safe Lifting

- 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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Live Well, Work Well- June 2023

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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Understanding the Difference Between Mental Health and Mental Illness

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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Cyber Liability: Preventing Data Theft by Departing Employees

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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What to Know During Mental Health Awareness Month and Beyond

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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Live Well, Work Well- May 2023

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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Safety Matters: Identifying and Preventing Future Accidents

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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Healthcare Insights: Using Patient Lifts in Residential Floor Plans

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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Safety Matters: Repositioning a Patient

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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News Brief: 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 encourage motorists like you to minimize...

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Live Well, Work Well- April 2023

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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Understanding Neurodiversity

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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Safety Matters: Using a Hoyer Lift for a Bed Transfer

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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Work Comp Insights: Disciplining or Terminating Employees With Open Workers’ Compensation Claims

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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Managing Seasonal Allergies

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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Live Well, Work Well- March 2023

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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Risk Insights: Incidental Medical Malpractice Insurance

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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Safety Matters: The Importance of Safety Belts

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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Work Comp Insights: Creating a Workers’ Compensation Process

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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Understanding the Importance of Disability Benefits

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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Live Well, Work Well- February 2023

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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A Beginner's Guide to Starting a Realistic Exercise Routine

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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Winter Wellness Tips

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 Liability: 10 Essential Cybersecurity Controls

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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Live Well, Work Well- January 2023

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

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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Risk Insights: Avoiding Muscle and Ligament Injuries

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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Work Comp Insights: When is a Workers’ Compensation Claim Compensable?

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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Preventing Burnout During the 2022 Holiday Season

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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News Brief: OSHA Announces Preliminary Top 10 Violations for Fiscal Year 2022

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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Live Well, Work Well- December 2022

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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The Mental Health Benefits of Exercise

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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Risk Insights: The Benefits of a Safe Patient Handling Program

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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Safety Matters: Vehicle Safety Precautions for Emergency Responders

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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HR Insights: Understanding FMLA Leave for Mental Health Conditions

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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Live Well, Work Well- November 2022

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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Safety Matters: Staying Safe from Falling Objects

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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Benefits Insights: 5 Things to Consider When Selecting a Health Plan

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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News Brief: FDA Approves Over-the-counter Hearing Aids

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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HR Insights: The Lingering Impact of Long COVID-19 on Employees and Workplaces

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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Live Well, Work Well - October 2022

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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Cyber Liability: The Importance of Two-factor Authentication

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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News Brief: Wages Increasing Near the Pace of Inflation

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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Work Comp Insights: Five Strategies for Reducing Workers’ Compensation Costs

- 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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News Brief: DHS Proposes Permanent Rule Allowing Remote Verification of Form I-9 Documents

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

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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Live Well, Work Well - September 2022

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 - Improving Your Productivity

“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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Work Comp Insights: These Three Trends Could Have Big Implications for Workers’ Compensation

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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The Impact of Sleep on Mental Health

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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Injury and Illness Reporting, Response and Recordkeeping for Temporary Workers

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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News Brief - Proposed Overtime Rule Expected in October 2022

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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Live Well, Work Well - August 2022

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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Workplace Wellness Programs to Reduce Workers’ Compensation Costs

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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Reducing Medication Management Risks in Home Healthcare

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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Risk Perspectives in Telehealth: Informed Consent

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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Live Well, Work Well - July 2022

- 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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Safety Matters: Do Your Part to Keep Our Workplace Safe

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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Your Wellness Matters: Mental Health

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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News Brief - Cost of Workers' Compensation Claims on the Rise

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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Your Wellness Matters: Musculoskeletal

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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June is National Safety Month

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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Live Well, Work Well - June 2022

- 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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Safety in Numbers: Improving Diagnosis Through Teamwork

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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Risk Tips: Using Scribes to Document Clinical Care

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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News Brief - Study Finds a 7,000% Increase in Telehealth Utilization During Pandemic

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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Risk Tips: Patient Safety & Risk Solutions

- 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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Live Well, Work Well - May 2022

- 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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Risk Perspectives in Telehealth: Licensing

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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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 encourage motorists like you to minimize...

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Risk Insights: Spring Storm Safety Tips for Businesses

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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Live Well, Work Well - April 2022

- 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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Legal Update: OSHA Reopens Rulemaking Record for COVID-19 Health Care Rule

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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Tips for Amending Electronic Health Records

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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Health Care Risk Insights: Nursing Home Fire Safety

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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Risk Tips: Engaging Patients to Improve Diagnosis

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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Live Well, Work Well - March 2022

- 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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Strategies for Reducing Polypharmacy in Senior Care

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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Ensuring HIPAA Compliance in Text Messaging

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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Cyber Update: Data Breaches Rose 68% in 2021

- - 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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Live Well, Work Well - February 2022

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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Safety Matters: De-Icing Outdoor Walking Surfaces in Winter

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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Winter Safety: Driving

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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Managing and Learning From Medication Mishaps: Promoting a Culture of Safety in Your Healthcare Practice

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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2022 OSHA Penalty Amounts

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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Legal Update: Supreme Court Stays OSHA ETS Vaccination and Testing Mandate

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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Legal Update: Agencies Issue Guidance on Coverage of OTC COVID-19 Tests

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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Changes Are Coming to the HIPAA Privacy Rule: Are You Prepared?

- - 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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2022 Workers' Compensation Insurance Market Outlook

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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Live Well, Work Well - January 2022

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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Legal Update: EEOC Issues New Guidance on COVID-19 and ADA Disability

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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Risk Tips: Managing Pandemic Related Clinician Burnout

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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Legal Update: Court Reinstates OSHA Vaccination Mandate for Private Employers

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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Auto Insights: Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter

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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Safety Matters: Avoid Winter Slip-ups

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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Prescribing as a Key Area for Safety Improvement

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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Risk Management Review: Medical Malpractice

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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Health Care Risk Insights: Footwear in Health Care Settings

- 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: Health Care

- - 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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Regulatory Roundup | October 22

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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Regulatory Roundup | October 15

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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Health Care Risk Insights: Protecting Patient Data by Preventing Cyber Attacks

- - 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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Health Care Risk Insights: Cyber Security

- - 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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Regulatory Roundup | October 8

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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Regulatory Roundup | October 1

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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Regulatory Roundup | September 24

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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Regulatory Roundup | September 20

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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Health Care Risk Insights: The Benefits of a Safe Patient Handling Program

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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Regulatory Roundup | August 27

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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Regulatory Roundup | August 20

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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Regulatory Roundup | August 13

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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Regulatory Roundup | August 6

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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Health Care Risk Insights

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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Regulatory Roundup | July 30

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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Regulatory Roundup | July 23

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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Regulatory Roundup | July 16

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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Slip & Fall Prevention - Tips for Walking on Ice

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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