Category: HR Buzz

Promoting a Culture of Prevention: The Importance of National Safety Month

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

Every June, the National Safety Council (NSC) leads the charge in recognizing National Safety Month, a critical campaign focused on preventing injuries and saving lives. From workplaces and roadways to homes and communities, this monthlong observance emphasizes the importance of safety awareness and proactive risk reduction. Unintentional injuries are the fourth leading cause of death in the United States, yet many of these incidents are preventable through education, planning, and behavioral changes (NSC, 2024).

National Safety Month is an opportunity for individuals, organizations, and institutions to pause and evaluate their safety practices. Each week of the month typically spotlights a different theme, such as emergency preparedness, fall prevention, roadway safety, and workplace hazard identification. These focal points are not random—they reflect the leading sources of injuries and fatalities in our communities.

In the workplace, safety is not just a regulatory requirement but a moral imperative. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023), over 5,000 fatal work injuries occurred in 2022 alone. Implementing regular safety training, maintaining proper equipment, and fostering a culture of open communication can significantly reduce such risks. We are encouraged to engage each other in identifying hazards and to participate wellness programs that also address mental health, fatigue, and stress—common contributors to workplace accidents. For instance, consider joining us during Mindful Mondays or practice mindfulness routinely as a means to remain refreshed and productive throughout the day.

Beyond the workplace, National Safety Month encourages vigilance in our daily lives. For example, falls are a major cause of injury among older adults, but they can often be prevented by improving lighting, removing tripping hazards, and promoting balance exercises. Similarly, distracted driving (let’s focus on being present during the commute) and failure to wear seat belts are still widespread behaviors that result in thousands of avoidable deaths each year. Public service campaigns, community events, and educational outreach during June aim to equip individuals with life-saving information and resources.

Parents and caregivers also play a vital role in promoting safety at home. From securing furniture to installing smoke alarms and keeping medications out of reach, small actions can make a big difference.

Employee Resources and Support

Kalamazoo College provides a comprehensive resource page dedicated to workplace injury prevention and safety information. The page, available at https://hr.kzoo.edu/workplace-injury-and-safety-information/, serves as a central hub where employees can access important guidance on reporting workplace injuries, understanding safety protocols, and learning about preventive measures. It also offers contact information for HR and Campus Safety along with links to training opportunities to foster a safer work environment for all. We are always looking for more information to add to this page. If you have suggestions, please send them to HR.Benefits@kzoo.edu.

Ultimately, National Safety Month is a call to action—a reminder that safety doesn’t happen by accident. It takes collective effort, sustained attention, and a willingness to adapt. Whether you’re a facilities management staff member replacing a light bulb, an office coordinator carrying a heavy box from the Mail Center or a parent teaching your child to look both ways before crossing the street, your efforts matter. Let’s be not weary in well doing! By participating in National Safety Month, we contribute to a national culture of care and prevention, helping ensure everyone has the opportunity to live, work, and play safely.

References
National Safety Council. (2024). National Safety Month. https://www.nsc.org/workplace/national-safety-month
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). National census of fatal occupational injuries in 2022. https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cfoi.pdf
Kalamazoo College Human Resources. (n.d.). Workplace injury and safety information. https://hr.kzoo.edu/workplace-injury-and-safety-information/

Men’s Health Month: Promoting Awareness and Early Intervention

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

June is recognized as Men’s Health Month, a national observance aimed at raising awareness about the health issues men face and encouraging proactive health management. This initiative emphasizes the importance of prevention, early detection, and treatment of diseases affecting men, particularly conditions that often go undiagnosed or untreated due to stigma, lack of awareness, or societal norms. Among these, mental health challenges remain one of the most pressing and under-discussed issues in men’s healthcare.

Physical Health Concerns

Men are statistically more likely to face a range of serious health conditions compared to women, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2022), heart disease is the leading cause of death among men in the United States, followed closely by cancer. Despite these alarming statistics, men are significantly less likely to visit a doctor regularly or seek medical help when symptoms arise.

Preventive care plays a critical role in reducing these risks. Routine screenings for cholesterol levels, blood pressure, colon and prostate cancer, and diabetes can lead to early detection and improved outcomes. For example, prostate cancer—one of the most common cancers in men—can be effectively managed when detected early through screenings such as the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test (American Cancer Society, 2023).

Did you know that both our Black and Orange plans cover preventative care at 100%. Consider reaching out to your health care provider to schedule your preventative screenings and stay on top of your physical health!

The Mental Health Crisis Among Men

While physical health often takes center stage, mental health is an equally critical part of overall well-being—and one that’s too often overlooked. Men, in particular, are less likely to be diagnosed with depression or anxiety. This isn’t necessarily because they experience these conditions less frequently, but rather because they are less likely to seek help.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH, 2023), men may express symptoms of depression in ways that differ from traditional expectations—such as through irritability, anger, or substance misuse—making these signs harder to recognize and diagnose.

A significant barrier is the lingering stigma around mental health, especially for men. Cultural norms that equate masculinity with emotional stoicism can discourage vulnerability and prevent individuals from accessing the support they need. The consequences are sobering: suicide rates among men remain significantly higher than among women, particularly among middle-aged and older men (CDC, 2022).

Changing this narrative requires a cultural shift—one that encourages open, judgment-free conversations about mental health and empowers people, regardless of gender, to seek help.

To support this shift, Kalamazoo College has expanded its partnership with Behavioral Health Systems to enhance our Employee Assistance Program (EAP). All employees, regardless of benefits eligibility, now have access to six (6) free sessions for a wide range of concerns—including mental health, substance use, autism support services, elder care, and even financial planning assistance.

Additionally, starting July 1, 2025, in-network mental health services will be available with no copayment, making care more accessible and affordable for all.

Your mental health matters—help is here, and you don’t have to face challenges alone.

Encouraging Engagement and Prevention

Men’s Health Month provides an important opportunity to educate men and their families about preventable health problems and to encourage early detection and treatment. Healthcare providers, employers, and community organizations are encouraged to engage men in conversations about their health through events, screenings, wellness programs, and educational materials.

As an employer, we play a pivotal role by promoting mental wellness in the workplace, offering employee assistance programs (EAPs), and creating an environment where seeking help is seen as a strength, not a weakness. Families and partners can also support by encouraging men to schedule regular checkups and by being aware of signs of mental or physical distress.

Conclusion

Raising awareness during Men’s Health Month is more than just a symbolic gesture—it’s a critical public health initiative. By spotlighting both physical and mental health issues, Men’s Health Month encourages men to take charge of their well-being, engage in preventive care, and seek timely treatment. Reducing stigma, increasing access to care, and fostering open dialogue are essential to improving health outcomes and saving lives. What is one small action you can do today to improve your health outcomes?

References

American Cancer Society. (2023). Prostate cancer early detection. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostate-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/detection.html

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Leading causes of death—Males—All races and origins—United States, 2019. https://www.cdc.gov/healthequity/lcod/index.htm

National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). Men and mental health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/men-and-mental-health

Prioritizing You This June: How to Celebrate Professional Wellness Month

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

June is Professional Wellness Month, a time for all of us to take a step back and focus on our overall well-being. Whether you’re working on campus, remotely, or in a hybrid setting, this month is about more than just your job performance—it’s about your health and happiness at work.

What Is Professional Wellness?

Professional wellness means feeling balanced, supported, and fulfilled in your job—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. It’s about building strong relationships with coworkers, practicing healthy habits, and creating boundaries that support your well-being. According to the NWF Health Network, celebrating this month includes making positive changes like choosing healthier snacks, standing more during the day, and engaging in workplace connections that bring joy and support.

Mental and Emotional Health: Your Foundation

Mental and emotional wellness are at the heart of how we show up at work each day. If you’re feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or disconnected, it’s okay—and important—to acknowledge it. You can take small steps like:

  • Talking to a trusted coworker, mentor, or a professional using our free employee assistance program (EAP) benefit
  • Using your paid time-off without guilt
  • Practicing mindfulness during breaks (even 5 minutes helps!)
  • Journaling or checking in with yourself emotionally

Remember, healthy communication and asking for support isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength. When you take care of your mind first, everything else becomes more manageable.

Social Wellness: Relationships Matter

A big part of wellness is the people around you. Positive work relationships can improve your job satisfaction and reduce stress. This month, challenge yourself to:

  • Reach out to a colleague you don’t usually talk to
  • Join a committee or group at work, like a wellness or engagement team
  • Say “thank you” more often—gratitude creates connection
  • Eat lunch with someone instead of alone at your desk (when possible)

The NWF Health Network points out that social connections can actually improve your physical and mental health, so building community at work is worth the effort (NWF Health Network, 2024).

Karnival 2024
Your Physical Health Deserves Attention Too

Let’s be honest—work can be sedentary. But movement, nutrition, and hydration are essential, even during a busy day. Try these quick wellness wins:

  • Use a standing desk or stretch once an hour
  • Bring healthier snacks or plan balanced meals
  • Set a water reminder to stay hydrated
  • Walk during meetings or breaks

Even small changes can have a big impact on your energy levels and focus. Your body will thank you!

Taking Ownership of Your Wellness

This month is a great time to reflect: What’s working for you, and what’s draining you? Think about what boundaries or habits you might need to protect your wellness. That could mean saying “no” to non-essential tasks, taking a real lunch break, or building time into your calendar for self-care.

Wellness Is a Team Effort

While the College plays a role in offering benefits and resources, you are your best advocate. Use this month to explore what resources are available—like wellness challenges, employee assistance programs (EAPs), or staff social events—and actually make use of them.

If your team doesn’t have a strong wellness culture yet, consider being the spark. You might be surprised at how many of your colleagues are craving the same support and balance.

Final Thought

Professional Wellness Month is about one thing: you. Your health, your happiness, your peace of mind. Take the time to check in with yourself, build better habits, and connect more meaningfully with those around you. Because when you feel good, you do good—in life, at work and everywhere else.

References
NWF Health Network. (2024). Professional Wellness Month. Retrieved from https://nwfhealth.org/professional-wellness-month/
NWF Health Network. (2024). June is Professional Wellness Month. Retrieved from https://nwfhealth.org/june-is-profession-wellness-month/

FSA Claims Substantiation Update

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

Flexible spending participants,

You may have noticed a series of messages from Burnham and Flower/Acrisure regarding flexible spending and providing receipts. A message from Amber Howes on May 28 should have reached you, and it is duplicated below. In sum, only claims occurring on/after May 1, 2025 need to be substantiated. Your HR team expects flexible spending communication and processes to return to acceptable levels immediately. Please reach out to hr.benefits@kzoo.edu if you experience is something different.

In good health,
Renee Boelcke and Miasha Wilson

Kalamazoo College FSA Participants:

As you are aware, new claims substantiation requirements were recently implemented for your FSA plan.  Beginning with claims incurred after May 1, 2025, you will be required to substantiate your FSA expenses.   

WHY NOW?

The IRS requires participants with health care and dependent care FSA plans to provide claims substantiation to their employer or TPA to receive reimbursement.

WHEN IS SUBSTANTION REQUIRED?

The IRS requires substantiation for every claim including card swipes.  However, if certain conditions are met, the claim may be auto-substantiated at the point of sale and additional documentation will not be required.

Claims can be auto-substantiated in the following circumstances:

  1. When using a debit card at a health care provider (including dental and vision providers)
    1. Copayment matching – If the card swipe matches the known copayment of the respective health plan, the claim will be auto-substantiated for charges in the amount of the copayment.
    2. Recurring expenses –  If the FSA participant has claims on a recurring basis in the same dollar amount, from the same provider, the claim will be auto-substantiated after the first claim is substantiated.
  2. For debit card purchases made through an inventory information approval system (IIAS) –IIAS is a point-of-sale technology that select merchants use that identifies transactions are eligible under an FSA or HRA. Ideally, all card swipes at an IIAS merchant would be auto-substantiated but there will be times purchases from these merchants will still require substation.  When a card swipe occurs, data is transmitted to us indicating the swipe is for an eligible expense.  However, there are times that IIAS substantiation fail to go through and participants will receive a request for documentation. 

HOW DO YOU SUBSTANTIATE CLAIMS?

Submitting documentation is a necessary part of receiving a tax-advantaged benefit and we try to make it as simple as possible.

First, save your receipts! 

Second, use the Portal (bfgroup.wealthcareportal.com) or Mobile App (App Store – Burnham & Flower Group Mobile) to easily submit documentation.  Simply upload your receipt from the merchant or service provider that includes the following information:

  1. Date of service
  2. Description of service
  3. Name of provider
  4. Dollar amount charged

This information is generally available on an itemized receipt, statement from a provider, or an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from an insurance carrier.  You are encouraged to hold on to your itemized receipts/documentation with your annual tax records for proof the card was used correctly. If you ever receive an IRS tax audit, you will need to document all medical expenses. It is recommended you retain copies of this documentation with tax records for up to seven years.

We are deeply sorry for the confusing emails regarding these updated procedures and pending transactions over the last several months.  We are committed to improving communication with our participants and look forward to providing you with clear and meaningful communication and resources in the months ahead. 

Please do not hesitate to reach out to Amber Howes ahowes@acrisure.com or our Acrisure Claims Advocate, Sandy Reid, at sreid@acrisure.com or 269-341-9212 with any questions about your FSA plan or the claims substantiation requirements. 

Caring for Our Community: Celebrating National Employee Wellness Month

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

At Kalamazoo College, our mission is to prepare graduates to lead in a complex and diverse world—but we know that mission begins with taking care of our faculty and staff. This June, we join organizations nationwide in recognizing National Employee Wellness Month, an opportunity to reflect on how we support the holistic well-being of our campus community.

As a member of the Wellness Committee, I’m excited to help champion initiatives that uplift the whole person—not just physically, but mentally, emotionally, and financially. When we take care of each other, we strengthen the foundation of everything we do as a college.

The Importance of Holistic Well-Being

Holistic wellness is a multi-dimensional approach that acknowledges that health isn’t just about preventing illness. It’s about creating an environment where every member of our community can thrive. Research supports this approach. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2021) reports that workplace wellness programs can help reduce health risks, increase productivity, and improve quality of life.

Key Focus Areas for Employee Wellness Month
  1. Physical Wellness
    We encourage everyone to take small steps to move more throughout the day. Whether it’s a lunchtime walk, attending a fitness class, or simply stretching at your desk, physical activity supports long-term health. If scheduling presents a problem, consider speaking with your supervisor regarding our flexible scheduling policy that can allow you to participate in our wellness programming.
  2. Mental and Emotional Health
    Our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers all employees free, confidential support for stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2019), the global impact of mental health issues on workplace productivity is enormous—making it vital to address this area proactively. Consider prioritizing mindfulness and emotional resilience by attending one of our Mindful Monday sessions.
  3. Financial Wellness
    The American Psychological Association (2023) identifies financial stress as a leading contributor to overall well-being concerns. With rising financial stress across the country, we’re committed to helping employees build financial confidence. Consider signing up for one of our monthly retirement planning sessions with TIAA, attending a financial webinar or viewing the On-demand Personal Finance 101 video, sponsored by One Digital, a Kalamazoo College partner.
Beyond June: A Year-Round Commitment

Wellness doesn’t stop at the end of the month—it’s something we’re working to embed into our campus culture every day. From flexible scheduling to supportive policies, we’re striving to ensure that Kalamazoo College is a place where faculty and staff feel respected, supported, and empowered to live healthy lives.

If you have ideas, questions, or would like to get involved with future wellness initiatives, please don’t hesitate to reach out to HR.Benefits@kzoo.edu. Let’s take care of each other as we continue creating a more inclusive and supportive campus community—together.

References

American Psychological Association. (2023). Stress in America 2023. https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2023/report

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Workplace health promotion. https://www.cdc.gov/workplacehealthpromotion/index.html

World Health Organization. (2019). Mental health in the workplace. https://www.who.int/mental_health/in_the_workplace/en/

Mental Health at Work: Small Shifts, Big Impact

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

May is Mental Health Awareness Month — a time to reflect on how we care for our emotional well-being both inside and outside of work. Whether you’re managing daily responsibilities, balancing personal commitments, or just trying to stay afloat, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. The good news is that small, intentional choices can help us build resilience and protect our mental health over time.

5 Small Shifts That Matter
  1. Name It to Tame It – Pause and check in with yourself. Naming how you’re feeling is a form of self-awareness that can lessen its intensity.
  2. Microbreaks Matter – A 5-minute walk or deep-breathing session between tasks can reset your nervous system and help you refocus.
  3. Set Soft Boundaries – If you find yourself saying “yes” to everything, practice saying, “Can I get back to you after I check my workload?”
  4. Protect One “No Meeting” Hour – Block off one hour a day (or even a few times a week) to do focused work or just breathe.
  5. Use Your Benefits – Don’t wait until you’re at a breaking point. Our BHS Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers free, confidential counseling and support resources.

Taking care of your mental health isn’t selfish — it’s essential. Whether you explored a new BHS video this month or will try one small shift from the list above, know that every step counts. You’re not alone, and support is always within reach.

A Focus on Mental Health Within Families

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

This insightful video emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness within family dynamics. It highlights how family members can support each other’s mental well-being, recognize signs of mental health issues, and create a nurturing environment that promotes open communication and understanding. Key topics covered include:

  • Recognizing Signs of Mental Health Issues: The video discusses common indicators of mental health struggles within family members, emphasizing the importance of early detection and intervention.​
  • Effective Communication Strategies: It offers guidance on fostering open and empathetic conversations about mental health, encouraging family members to share their feelings and experiences without judgment.​
  • Creating a Supportive Environment: The video underscores the role of a nurturing home atmosphere in promoting mental well-being, including establishing routines, setting boundaries, and practicing self-care collectively.​
  • Seeking Professional Help: It encourages families to consider professional support when needed, highlighting the benefits of therapy and counseling in addressing mental health concerns.​

By providing these insights, the video aims to empower families to proactively engage in mental health discussions and support each other through challenges.

Watch the video here: A Focus on Mental Health Within Families

The Ins & Outs of Therapy from the Counselor’s Chair

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

This insightful video offers a behind-the-scenes look at the therapeutic process from a counselor’s perspective. It aims to demystify therapy by addressing common questions and concerns individuals may have when considering counseling. Key topics covered include:

  • Understanding the Therapeutic Relationship: The video emphasizes the importance of building trust and rapport between the therapist and client, highlighting how this relationship forms the foundation for effective therapy.​
  • What to Expect in Therapy Sessions: Viewers are guided through the typical structure of therapy sessions, including initial assessments, goal setting, and the collaborative nature of the therapeutic journey.​
  • Common Misconceptions: The counselor addresses and clarifies common myths about therapy, such as the belief that seeking help is a sign of weakness or that therapy is only for severe issues.​
  • Benefits of Therapy: The video outlines the various ways therapy can assist individuals, from developing coping strategies and improving communication skills to fostering personal growth and resilience.​

By providing this overview, the video encourages individuals to consider therapy as a valuable resource for mental health support and personal development.

Watch the video here: The Ins & Outs of Therapy from the Counselor’s Chair

Reminder: Request for Nomi Feedback

Posted on by Renee Boelcke

Please be invited to share your thoughts on Nomi by May 9. There are five questions and only one requires a response. Your contribution will help inform next steps, if any. Additional information on Nomi is on the “Share your thoughts” page and some information is duplicated below.

Nomi Information

What is Nomi? How would work with ASR and our existing healthcare network?

Nomi’s Direct Network ensures that providers are paid quickly and in full so that employers can offer a rich health benefit that employees can use. Since providers are guaranteed to be paid in full in a short period of time, they are willing to reduce the overall cost of care, benefiting employees and employers. You could still use a provider not in the Nomi network, which would mean that the current copays, coinsurance, and deductibles would still apply, just as you experience them today. Current day “in-network” would separate into Tier 1 (Nomi) and Tier 2 (in-network, non-Nomi). Current day “out-of-network” would be renamed “Tier 3.”

Benefits SummaryTier 1
Nomi		Tier 2
Black Plan		Tier 2
Orange Plan		Tier 3
Black Plan		Tier 3
Orange Plan
Deductible
(Single/Family)		$0/$0$1,000/
$2,000		$0/$0$1,500/
$3,000		$500/
$1,000
Outpatient Co-insurance0%10%0%30%20%
Inpatient Co-insurance0%10%0%30%20%
Coinsurance OOP Max
(Single/Family)		$0/$0$6,000/
$12,000		$6,000/
$12,000		N/AN/A
Preventative Care$0$0$030%20%
Office Visit Copay$0$25$1030%20%
Urgent CareSame as Network
In/Out		$50$2030%20%
ER Copay
waived if admitted		Same as Network
In/Out		$150$150$150$150
Current network, without NomiN/AIn-networkIn-networkOut-of-NetworkOut-of-Network
How can I learn if my provider is already part of the Nomi network?

Nomi has approximately 20,000 providers in network with more being added regularly.
Use sample group ID MNCL1 to search the current directory at https://www.nomihealth.com/provider-search.

Tier 1 common local providers

Bronson Battle Creek Hospital
Bronson Lakeview Hospital
Bronson Methodist Hospital
Mercy Health St. Mary’s
University of Michigan Ann Arbor
University of Michigan Health System

Tier 2* common local providers

Borgess Hospital
Bronson at Home
Corewell Health Grand Rapids Hospital
Hospice of Greater Kalamazoo
Indiana Center for Recovery South Bend
Kalamazoo Endo Center
Life EMS of Kalamazoo
Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital
Northwestern Memorial Healthcare
Optimed Infusion Services
Pine Rest Christian Mential Health Services
Surgery Center of Kalamazoo
Woodbridge Center
*All in-network providers through ASR/HAP/Physicians Network not listed in Tier 1

Tier 3

All out-of-network providers from ASR/HAP/Physician’s Network

How would mental health care though BHS and Nomi work together?

Copays for mental health services would reduce to zero ($0) for BHS providers.

Focus on the Positive: Stress Less

Posted on by Miasha Wilson

In this short and insightful video, BHS highlights the powerful role that positive thinking plays in reducing stress and improving overall mental health. Viewers will learn how our thoughts shape our experiences and how shifting to a more positive mindset can help us better manage life’s daily challenges. The video explores:

  • The connection between positive thinking and physical well-being
  • How optimism influences our ability to cope with stress
  • Practical tips to reframe negative thoughts and build a more resilient outlook
  • The importance of practicing gratitude and celebrating small wins

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or simply looking for ways to stay grounded during stressful times, this video offers simple, actionable steps to help you stress less and focus more on what’s going right.

📌 Takeaway: You can’t always control what happens, but you can control where you place your attention. And that shift can make all the difference.

Watch the video here:
Focus on the Positive – Stress Less (BHS QuickClip)