Carol Bennett’s innovation and commitment to inclusion led to her recognition as the Human Resources/Benefits Professional of the Year at Benefits Canada’s 2024 Workplace Benefits Awards on Oct. 18. Bennett, senior advisor of Canadian health and welfare benefits at BMO Financial Group, was awarded for the innovation she has brought to the bank’s benefits and wellness programs […]
While the vast majority (95 per cent) of workers said they appreciate the value of learning to use generative artificial intelligence tools, they’re unsure their organizations have their best interest in mind, according to a new report by Accenture Canada. It found, while more than half (52 per cent) of employers are redesigning jobs and […]
Amid an uncertain job market and cost-of-living worries, employers can harness the benefits of artificial intelligence to help employees with reskilling and career development, says Candy Ho, professor at Kwantlen Polytechnic University and board chair at non-profit organization CERIC. “I think we’ve got a huge opportunity ahead of us with AI and, not jobs being […]
When looking at the future of inclusive benefits, it’s important for employers to take a holistic approach and ensure their benefits plans offer something for everyone. “Whether you’re a recent university graduate, a parent, single or married, we try to support people wherever they’re at,” says Christine Tatham, chief people officer at Redbrick. “For us, it’s […]
Benefits Canada is extending the deadline for entering the 2024 Workplace Benefits Awards to Friday, July 5 at 5 p.m. EST. The original industry awards program has been recognizing employers and plan sponsors for more than 20 years, highlighting their innovative approaches to supporting the mental, physical and financial well-being of their employees. Enter the 2024 Workplace Benefits Awards […]
A recent report by the Patented Medicine Prices Review Board shows increased growth for private drug plan costs but promising pharmaceutical innovation, says Joe Farago, executive director of private payers and investment at Innovative Medicines Canada. The report also found the number of new medicines launched in Canada was higher than the median for Organisation for […]
Sun Life Financial Inc. has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Dialogue Health Technologies Inc. for roughly $365 million. The insurer initially invested in the virtual-care platform in 2020 and subsequently expanded the relationship as a large shareholder and partner. Dialogue will maintain its head office in Montreal and will continue to operate as a […]
The growth of gene and cell therapies are raising significant questions among private payers about who bears the responsibility for the costs of these treatments, says Tim Clarke, president at TC Health Consulting Inc. “One issue is whether this is going to be paid for by public health or if it’s an employer health issue. […]
As technology advances and plan members’ needs become more diverse, the relationship between benefits plan sponsors and providers is adapting to fit these changes. Sarah Beech, chief executive officer of benefits and consulting at Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., believes the trend of employees wanting more from their employers is the starting point for this […]
The Ontario Teachers Insurance Plan has added a lead pharmacy consultant to its group life and disability claims team to assist in managing both early intervention and ongoing disability claims. The role, which was introduced in June 2021, creates a collaborative relationship between the pharmacist and the disability management team, providing further support for plan […]