Information accurate as of 02/04/21 and applies to State of Georgia residents only. Who can get the vaccine? The vaccine will be administered in phases as determined by the state health agencies.  Below are the phases for Georgia. We are in Phase 1A+ Healthcare workers Staff and residents at long-term care facilities Adults aged 65+ and …

This time, I tried something new. I gave virtual physical therapy a try. What I learned is that there is a wonderful budding new tool for the musculoskeletal issues plaguing so many of us. Here is my story, with added implications for employers. I have experienced physical therapy a couple of times in the past. …

To Our Friends and Fellow Americans,  The exact date, name, and location of the original Memorial Day observance has been debated for more than 150 years. Memorial Day’s many changes were resolved by the passage of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act which mandated in 1971, Memorial Day would occur on the last Monday in May.   www.history.com/topics/holidays/memorial-day-history    Wednesday, May …

The IRS has just released two new sets of rules impacting Section 125 Cafeteria Plans.  Notice 2020-33 provides permanent rule changes and  Notice 2020-29 provides temporary rule changes. The relief provided under each notice is totally optional for employers. Employers who choose to take advantage of any of the offered plan options will be required to notify all …

“Noah didn’t wait for the rain to fall before building the Ark.” Those words from a mentor decades ago are applicable to many of life’s challenges. His wisdom has stuck with me. Those words were some of the first thoughts that came to mind as the wave of COVID-19 began to hit our country. The …

In Georgia, the 72-hour telehealth prescribing limit has been removed at this time by emergency declaration. This change will remain in place until the governor suspends the emergency declaration. Telehealth providers are aware of this change and are now prescribing in Georgia in a manner that is consistent with clinical quality and antibiotic stewardship protocols. …

Many of us have heard the following quote by Fred Rogers (aka, Mr. Rogers)  . . . “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” We have heard the quote and …

The Benefit Company is eager to share with you helpful tools for addressing employer concerns regarding the coronavirus (“coronavirus disease 2019” or “COVID-19”). In addition to suggesting the limitation of international travel, the CDC has provided a list of steps businesses can take that may prevent workplace exposures to acute respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. HR leaders …

There are many people anxiously waiting to see what their heartthrob will do to express their love this week. According to Statista.com, the most popular Valentine’s Day gifts in the U.S. are candy/sweets (44%), greeting cards (33%), flowers (32%), and romantic dinners (29%). Other popular gifts include wine, jewelry, clothing, lingerie and pajamas, and event …

January is the greatest month of the year! That may be an uncommon opinion, but I’m ready to make my case on why January deserves the crown. It may seem like a silly argument to have, but I don’t ever shy away from a good back and forth (just ask my wife).  Don’t agree?  Add …