[MCOH-EH] Smoking - Employees

[Dr. Ping Gao]

We just ask employees to attest the status of smoking at annual benefits enrollment, no test required. Nonsmokers will receive a small amount of incentive money toward their premium as part of wellness incentives (other parts include annual lab work at employee health clinics, wellness coaching with employee health wellness supervisor, and watch a short online wellness video). 

Participation in wellness program is not mandatory but earns incentives to offset premium to their medical plan, to encourage employees to live a healthy lifestyle and be aware of their health conditions and follow with their personal provider if indicated.

Ping Gao, MD, MPH, FACOEM 
Medical Director 
Occupational Medicine and Employee Health 
AnMed Health 


> On Apr 12, 2021, at 3:55 PM, Cindy M. Hansen <Chansen at mhg.com> wrote:
> 
> Hey there,
> I am inquiring and seeking info on how folks are implementing their smoking policies, guide to wellness, smoking cessation etc…. 
> Are there insurance implications (i.e., higher premiums for smokers).
> Do you test, If yes, how frequently? And with what testing mechanism Cotinine – POC or other?  If positive do you instantly hike their insurance rate or do you give them opportunity to quit?
> Policy?
> Anything else I haven’t asked that was an important piece during implementation ? 
>  
> We  are no going to have no smoking as a condition of hire, but more of trying to guide, assist, and promote healthier lifestyle. 
>  
> Any comments welcomed. 
>  
> Cindy Hansen, RN, MSN, CCM
> Director, Employee Health
> Memorial Hospital  | 4500 13th Street  | Gulfport, MS 39502-1810
> Office:  228.867.4174 | Fax:  228.867.4080 | Cell:  228-323-7654
> <image001.png>
>  
> www.gulfportmemorial.com/
> 
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