Women who develop inflammatory arthritis or psoriasis often do so in the prime of their lives, leaving them with concerns related to their reproductive and sexual health. But they struggle to find support in their employer-sponsored benefits plans. “We know that diversity, equity and inclusion are a really big piece of [human resources] these days,” […]
Hallucinogens like ecstasy and magic mushrooms are being used in the treatment of depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, but the risks may outweigh the benefits. Erika Dyck, Canada research chair and professor in history of health and social justice at the University of Saskatchewan Psychedelics may conjure images of beatniks, hippies and Deadheads, but recent […]
Ontario is eyeing a new system to provide “portable benefits” for workers in the gig economy, retail and hospitality sectors who don’t currently have health, dental or vision coverage. Under the plan, workers would be able to keep their benefits even if they change jobs, said the province in a press release. If the plan […]
While there’s a 2.5 per cent lifetime chance of having alopecia areata, the progression can be unpredictable and cause a lot of stress for patients, according to Dr. Lyn Guenther, professor of dermatology at Western University, during a webinar hosted by Benefits Canada and supported by Pfizer earlier this month. Alopecia areata is more than […]
Uber Technologies Inc. has signed an agreement with a private sector union that will provide representation to Canadian drivers and couriers, but doesn’t unionize workers. Through this agreement, Uber will prioritize new benefits and protections for drivers and delivery people, as well as enhancing their flexibility to work if, when and where they want, according […]
The drug pipeline is full of new medications that may be more effective but may also be more expensive than existing treatments. Although they could significantly improve a benefits plan member’s health, they could also render a plan unaffordable. “Because drugs represent a significant portion of group insurance plan costs, plan sponsors are concerned about […]
The coronavirus pandemic and the changing environment have impacted pharmaceutical manufacturer-sponsored patient support programs. Manufacturers offer patient support programs to help individuals access their medication and navigate the health-care system, according to Sandra Anderson, senior vice-president of commercialization and strategy at Innomar Strategies, speaking during a session at Benefits Canada‘s Face to Face in Drug […]
A growing number of organizations are moving beyond compliance to foster diversity, equity and inclusion in their workplaces. According to research, companies that have embraced a DEI strategy improved their bottom line with a 53 per cent return on equity, a 42 per cent return on sales, in addition to being 70 per cent more […]
The coronavirus pandemic is demonstrating that pharmacists are a key health-care provider, with one study finding nearly 75 per cent of pharmacists have had patients who sought care at the pharmacy because they were afraid of going to any other health-care setting. A panel during Benefits Canada‘s Face to Face in Drug Plan Management Forum in […]
One in five Canadians will experience a mental illness in their lifetime and by age 40 about 50 per cent of the population will have or have had one. Mental illness includes conditions such as depression, schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, which “can really affect the ability of an individual to function,” said Nida Mian, senior […]