EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (EAP) POLICY

GOAL
To provide professional consultation and referrals for personal situations which have or may have an adverse impact on personal lives and/or work performance.

POLICY
Cottage Health System (CHS) sponsors an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which provides referrals and short-term counseling (up to 4 sessions) at no cost to the participant. Participation in the EAP is confidential, unless the participant demonstrates intent to commit, or has committed illegal acts or is a threat to him/herself or others.

ELIGIBILITY
All CHS employees and their immediate family members, domestic partner, and/or significant other are eligible immediately from date of hire.

PROCEDURE
Self- Referrals
Eligible participants may self-refer to the EAP.
The EAP will provide assessment and referrals and, when appropriate, provide short-term counseling (up to 4 sessions).

Supervisory Referrals

1. An employee may be referred to the EAP by his/her supervisor or other authorized CHS representative.
2. If the referral is due to documented poor job performance or a behavioral performance in the workplace, the EAP will provide information to CHS.
3. Participation and compliance with the recommendations of the EAP may be required as part of constructive counseling, or in conjunction with formal warning and/or disciplinary action to correct a behavioral problem in the workplace. Failure to comply with program requirements may result in further disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

Mental Health Benefits
Employees and/or dependents covered under the CHS Medical Plan must contact an EAP representative in order to access the mental health/chemical dependency benefits.