If you find it harder to keep up with your workouts as the temperatures drop, you’re not alone. Many Americans find it increasingly difficult to remain committed as the holiday blues, shorter days and less-than-ideal weather create obstacles. Whether you’re a gym-goer or outdoor exerciser, there are simple ways to overcome winter obstacles and keep…
On Jan. 10, 2022, the Depts. of Labor, Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Treasury issued FAQ guidance regarding the requirements for group health plans and health insurance issuers to cover over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 diagnostic tests. At-home COVID-19 tests must be covered even if they are obtained without the involvement of a health care…
Affordable Care Act (ACA) reporting under Section 6055 and Section 6056 for the 2021 calendar year is due in early 2022. Specifically, reporting entities must: A proposed rule issued on Nov. 22, 2021, extended the annual furnishing deadlines under both Sections 6055 and 6056 for an additional 30 days. This rule is in proposed form…
Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a recurring depression that affects individuals during the winter months and recedes during the spring and summer. How common is SAD? It is estimated that between 4 and 6 percent of Americans suffer from SAD, with three-quarters of those affected being women, mostly in their 20s, 30s and 40s….
On Monday, Jan. 3, 2022, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updated its emergency use authorization (EUA) for the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, authorizing a booster shot for children ages 12-15. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is currently the only primary vaccination series authorized for this age group. The FDA also amended the EUA to shorten the time…
On Monday, Dec. 27, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reduced its recommended periods for COVID-19 isolation (confirmed COVID-19 infection) and quarantine (potential COVID-19 exposure). Asymptomatic individuals infected with COVID-19 have been told to isolate for five days from the day they test positive—down from the original 10. After, they should wear…
On Thursday, Dec. 2, 2021, President Joe Biden spoke at a press conference where he outlined a multiprong approach to combat COVID-19 this winter. The plan is described as having the following goals: Drafting a rule that requires private insurers to reimburse the costs of at-home COVID-19 tests Getting the approximately 43 million vaccine holdouts…
A new variant of coronavirus is prompting renewed concern regarding the pandemic. The World Health Organization (WHO) named the new variant “Omicron.” Omicron is labeled a “variant of concern,” the agency’s serious category for tracking. Such a designation is reserved for dangerous variants that may be more transmissible or virulent or could decrease the effectiveness…
Many employees look forward to year-end workplace holiday celebrations. These events allow employees to celebrate with their colleagues and sometimes even family and guests. Importantly, these celebrations can also be a great way to drive employee engagement. While these events are often a long-standing company tradition, many organizations canceled holiday parties last year or found…
Like many other people, you may be thinking about what you would like to accomplish in 2022 or what life changes you could make. Common New Year’s resolutions include losing weight, exercising, getting organized, learning new skills and saving money. To achieve your resolutions, try the following strategies: Set a goal that motivates you. Set…