HVBF Monthly Meeting - Human Resources Roundtable
Thursday, November 6, 2003, 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM

Host: 

KCI Technologies

Attending:

Sam Almengor, Apex Professional Staffing
Mary Atteberry-White, Eastern Savings Bank
Bill Boden, Executive H.R.
Steve Butterworth, Hays Companies
Heather Chism, J. M. T.
Marcie Cohen, Ultimate Staffing
Eileen Edwards, KCI Technologies
Jennifer Hargett, Apex Professional Staffing Inc
Mary Ellen Judy, KCI Technologies
Kim Kennedy, Ultimate Staffing
Pat Kilroy, Systems Alliance
Laura Kyle, Marriott Courtyard Hunt Valley
Joe Lemmon, HR Workplace Solutions
Tom Maze, Polaris Human Capital Management
Melissa Menkel, Whiteford, Taylor & Preston L.L.P.
Ann Miller, Medical Mutual Insurance Society of Maryland
Steve O’Connor, TESST College of Technology
Mark Powichroski, Right Management Consultants
James Randisi, Randisi & Associates
Mark Robertson, NuTec Design Associates
Rick Webb, Atlantic Financial Federal Credit Union
Bob Williams, Maryland Dept of Economic Development
Gail Williams, McCormick & Company

Chairwoman Eileen Edwards opened the meeting at KCI Technologies. Eileen introduced Lesley Morgan of Business Health Services, to lead our discussion on Employee Assistance Programs (EAP).

Large and small companies can benefit from professionally managed Employee Assistance Programs. The immediate benefit is a substantial reduction in absenteeism, accidents and other influences on productivity. General Motors claims a saving of $ 3,700 annually for employees enrolled in their EAP program. Selecting an appropriate EAP provider is critical to the success of the program. Vendors should be consultative and visible and gain the confidence of employees. Live clinicians and rapid response times facilitate the effectiveness of the program. The vendor must anticipate current needs and understand the contemporary stresses employees’ experience. A fee for service program may be more affordable by dealing with specific events but cannot be as effective as a management tool. EAP programs can also aide companies in a defense against litigation involving termination. EAP’s are affordable for small companies.

A few qualities of a vendor should be years of experience, response time, areas of coverage and programs offered. Obtain vendor references from clients, former clients and service providers of the vendor before selecting.

For more information Lesley can be reached at lmorgan@bhsonline.com or call 800-765-3277x103.