But they are generally calculated on a per employee basis. Gap Canada Inc., for instance, pays a set rate per employee on a quarterly basis. Other plan sponsors pay on a monthly basis per employee and family member. As people's comfort level with using EAPs becomes higher, and as the range of services gets wider utilization, rates will likely go up. Warren Shepell's Jones agrees.
Employers have liability in several different areas.
One is the cost associated with things such as absenteeism, disability, lowered productivity and workplace conflict. Plus, there's often a legal liability around situations involving harassment, workplace violence, traumatic events and so the more that employees access the service, the more these types of problems will be avoided and costs will be reduced. This, in turn, is forcing providers to move into a more consultative role. Demand for Internet services, as well as disability management programs, is on the rise. Other EAPs such as Ceridian and CHC Working Well offer plan members the ability to make appointments with counsellors online.