Message from CHRO: Health and wellness resources
Dear UA Colleagues,
Lately we have observed and experienced many difficult issues in the world, our nation, and our university community. Things can seem even more difficult with the added isolation and uncertainty of remote work. I want to remind everyone about the variety of resources available to employees to help manage during hard times. UA offers several levels of confidential services for those in need of behavioral health or mental health resources. Additionally, financial and family support services are offered at no cost to employees.
For short-term counseling, along with many other life/work balance assistance resources, consider the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through Deer Oaks. See the Fact Sheet and more on the EAP website for how to access this benefit, all at no cost to you whatsoever.
Virtual Care: If you need more intensive or clinical services, but either don't have access to clinicians in your area or you'd rather receive therapy virtually, consider TalkSpace, an online service with licensed clinicians using either private messaging or live video. Using TalkSpace is subject to your plan's deductible and coinsurance, but costs might be less because the services are based on Washington charges. There's a link to the FAQ on the TalkSpace website that answers most questions. More information can be found here.
For face-to-face local therapy, your UA Choice plan offers a network of licensed clinicians in most areas of Alaska. Sometimes, an in-person appointment is the best option. You can always talk to your doctor about a behavioral health referral. They may have some recommendations in your area. Or you can just log in to Premera.com to find a provider in your area using the "Find a Doctor" tool, then select Medical Care, then Behavioral/Mental Health.
Be sure also to take necessary time for yourself and your family and friends. The university offers generous sick leave if you need treatment or care, and annual leave to promote healthy work life balance. Our wellness program through ZomoHealth has great resources for living a healthy lifestyle and you can even sign-up for individual coaching services from our dedicated wellness program manager, Victoria Carver. To access these resources log on to PreventionCloud for UA with your UA username and password.
Please take care and stay safe. Best to you all.
Steve
Steven J. Patin
Chief Human Resources Officer