What Are Some Pros & Cons of HIPAA? | Virginia Benefit Advisors

Congress approved the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to guard the privacy of personal medical information, and to give individuals the right to keep their health insurance coverage for pre-existing conditions in place even if they change jobs. The law has done this, providing important safeguards for patients. But it has also increased … Continued

What Is the Importance of OSHA in the Workplace? | Virginia Benefit Advisors

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, was established in 1970 to encourage employees and employers to decrease workplace hazards. OSHA recommends that both parties cooperatively establish workplace-specific safety standards. The agency also establishes training programs for occupational safety and health personnel. Finally, OSHA oversees research to find new approaches to workplace safety and … Continued

USCIS Releases Revised Version of Form I-9 | Virginia Benefit Advisors

On July 17, 2017, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the publication of a revised version of Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification. What Employers Need to Know Employers may use the new form, with a revision date of 07/17/17 N now. Using new form is mandatory on September 18, 2017 to avoid fines. … Continued

TeleMedicine | Virginia Benefit Advisors

It’s not surprising that 2017 stands to be the year many will have an experience to share using a Telemedicine or a Virtual Doctor service. With current market trends, government regulations, and changing economic demands, it’s fast becoming a more popular alternative to traditional healthcare visits.  And, as healthcare costs continue to rise and there … Continued

Dog-friendly Workplace | Virginia Benefit Advisors

Question: We are considering becoming a dog-friendly office. Are there drawbacks we should consider when allowing employees to bring their dogs in to work? What are the best practices we should follow? Answer: There are many legal and other issues to consider before implementing a dog-friendly office. For instance, employers in the food processing or … Continued