February 2019 Business Magazine

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As women take on more substantial roles in the business world, their impact continues to grow.

Their roles as initiators, representative and connectors have proven to contribute to organizational success, giving them the potential to fill more high-ranking positions.

Join us as we hear from local businesswoman and esteemed educator Maureen Barber-Carey, Ed.D., on her personal and professional journey and how vision and opportunity can impact business, leadership and life. Dr. Barber-Carey is the executive vice president of the Barber National Institute, one of Erie’s largest employers and a premier educational organization for children and adults with autism, intellectual disabilities and behavioral health challenges.

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BUSINESS

VOL. XXXII NO. 2 | FEBRUARY 2019

MAGAZINE

SPOTLIGHT Q&A:

BEHIND THE BUSINESS OF BLOOD DONATION

ON THE HILL:

PROVIDING A CLEARER VISION FOR CARE THROUGH EXPERIENCE, TECHNOLOGY

WHY PENNSYLVANIA NEEDS ASSOCIATION HEALTH PLANS

FEATURES FEATURE STORY | WHAT’S INSIDE

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Health & Wellness Prevention and education are essential to controlling health-care costs.

COVER STORY | LOCAL PROFILE

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UPMC Hamot At UPMC Hamot, expertise and the use of advanced technology is providing a clearer vision for care — and better patient outcomes.

SPOTLIGHT Q&A | NONPROFIT

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DEPARTMENTS

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BUSINESS BUZZ

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PEOPLE BUZZ

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HR CONNECTION

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HR Q&A

WHAT’S NEW

EDITORIAL

SPECIAL SECTION & EXTRAS 21 EVENTS NETWORKING AND MORE

LEGAL BRIEF | EMPLOYMENT LAW

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AWARDS AND PROMOTIONS

WORKPLACE TRENDS

GET ANSWERS

Executive Editor Karen Torres ktorres@mbausa.org

Feature Photography Rob Frank UPMC Hamot

Contributing Writers Gaelin P. Carrig Jezree Friend

Additional Photography Casey Naylon iStock Photography Design, Production & Printing Printing Concepts Inc. printcon@erie.net

Deanna Renaud, executive director of the Community Blood Bank (CBB) of Northwest Pennsylvania and Western New York, discusses the importance of making a blood donation and ways that businesses can get involved.

How you can protect your employees and yourself from sexual harassment in the workplace.

Gaelin P. Carrig

ON THE HILL | GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

READ ON THE GO! For the most current Business Magazine updates, visit mbabizmag.com

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Why Pennsylvania should care about small business when it comes to association health plans, which would ease the insurance burden on employers.

Jezree Friend

Advertising Sales Frank Mehler 814/833-3200 fmehler@mbausa.org David Thornburg 814/833-3200 dthornburg@mbausa.org

On the Cover: UPMC Hamot radiologist Antonio Pena, M.D., and cardiologist Randy Jeffrey, M.D., have helped bring cardiac MRI capabilities to the Erie hospital. The diagnostic imaging technology allows cardiologists to use radiowaves and powerful magnets to create pictures of a patient’s heart without using ionizing radiation. See page 4 for full story.

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© Copyright 2019 by the Manufacturer & Business Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial, pictorial or advertisements created for use in the Business Magazine, in any manner, without written permission from the publisher, is prohibited. Unsolicited manuscripts cannot be returned unless accompanied by a properly addressed envelope bearing sufficient postage. The magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork. The Business Magazine and Manufacturer & Business Association do not specifically endorse any of the products or practices described in the magazine. The Business Magazine is published monthly by the Manufacturer & Business Association, 2171 West 38th Street, Erie, Pa. 16508. Phone: 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660.

mbabizmag.com • FEBRUARY 2019

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FEATURE STORY | WHAT’S INSIDE

Health & Wellness

REDUCE COSTS WITH EDUCATION, PREVENTION Health care is consistently one of America’s key issues, and, in 2019, education and prevention continue to be even more critical to controlling costs, especially for employers.

In fact, employers are the largest single provider and purchaser of health insurance in the United States, covering more than 150 million workers and their dependents and purchasing 34 percent of all health care dispensed in the country. And, although employers have enjoyed some success in controlling rising health-care costs, with premiums increasing 3 percent to 5 percent annually, rather modest by historic standards, there are other ways to help keep costs down.

Experts suggest that keeping employees informed and educated about healthcare costs is key. Knowing the cost of care and where to receive it could save your employees a great deal of money and may even result in a financial reward once the service has been completed.

Wellness programs also can help motivate your employees to improve their health by offering rewards when they achieve predefined goals. Some aspects of a wellness program may include classes about health risks and improving behavior, health coaching, smoking cessation courses, discount gym memberships and online health assessments. These may save you and your employees money by helping your employees achieve better health — and fewer doctor visits.

If and when they do need to visit a doctor, employees need to explore their options for

receiving care. Virtual visits, or “seeing” the doctor through a video call or messaging system, are not only a more convenient option when it comes to a non-emergent need to see a doctor, but they also are often more cost effective.

Co-pays for a virtual visit are on average around $45, while the price to head to the nearest emergency room or urgent care facility can be $100 or more. This service can help employees avoid numerous sick days, get back to work quickly and prevent an illness from getting worse, while getting the care they need from the comfort of home.

And don’t forget the adage: “Prevention is the best medicine.” Pro-active preventive care is integral to staying healthy, and ultimately helping to reduce unnecessary visits to the doctor. Preventive care includes immunizations, physical exams, lab tests and certain prescriptions. Staying on top of these things can help maintain good health and reduce health-care costs for everyone!

In this edition of the Business Magazine, we’ll explore some of resources that can contain costs and enhance care, including the advanced technology available through hospital systems, such as UPMC Hamot in Erie. We’ll also examine the business of blood donation in the workplace and how it can benefit the community as a whole. Plus, we’ll discuss the important topic of association health plans (AHPs) and how they would benefit employers in Pennsylvania by alleviating the health-care cost burdens they currently endure.

Be sure to check out some of our insightful articles on the value of voluntary benefits, as well as some simple steps you can take to reduce stress in your workforce. Now is the time to evaluate how you and your team can improve overall health while improving the bottom line.

STAY FOCUSED ON OVERALL HEALTH!

mbabizmag.com • FEBRUARY 2019

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With UPMC Hamot’s CT image-guided approach, surgeons can position screws and other hardware that is used in a variety of spine procedures, from spinal fusion to complex scoliosis cases.

COVER STORY | LOCAL PROFILE

Providing a Clearer Vision for Care Through Experience, Technology Christine Nestor is always on the go.

When she’s not at her busy veterinary practice, she enjoys participating in triathlons, biking, snowboarding and keeping physically fit.

So when an old gymnastics injury was causing back pain a few years ago, Nestor made an appointment with a physical therapist who referred her to Erie neurosurgeon Brad Bellotte, M.D. Bellotte is the chief of Neurosurgery at UPMC Hamot — the largest neurosurgery team in Erie, Pennsylvania.

With UPMC Hamot’s specialization in brain and spine disorders, ranging from arthritis in the neck or lower back, to herniated discs, spine tumors and spinal trauma from accidents, Nestor found a doctor who was knowledgeable in her condition and could provide the treatment she needed.

In fact, Nestor first exhausted conservative methods for treatment for a degenerative disc, but after about a year, elected to pursue lumbar fusion surgery using intraoperative computed tomography (CT).

Four weeks after the surgery, Nestor said she decided to go back to work.

“I was careful, but in the first three weeks, you can’t do much more than walk, and I was pretty sore,” Nestor says.

“By nine weeks post–op, I had ridden about 80 miles on my bike. It really worked well for me. I’m two years out, and I have no pain.

“Every condition is different,” Nestor adds, “but I had a really great experience.”

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FEBRUARY 2019 • mbabizmag.com

At UPMC Hamot, the use of intraoperative CT imaging and other advanced technology is providing a clearer vision for care — and better patient outcomes.

In the case of intraoperative CT, or what Bellotte describes as a “GPS for the OR,” the technology provides greater precision, quality assurance and improved patient safety versus using traditional X-rays.

“Specifically, if we’re working around delicate areas of the spine and putting in instrumentation and metal screws, we can now visualize exactly in 3D where they are going in real-time and verify the results before the procedures are complete,” explains Bellotte.

The intraoperative CT also eliminates the exposure to radiation and reduces the chance for a second surgery due to limited views.

So far, UPMC Hamot’s neurosurgeons have performed more than 300 spinal surgeries using the intraoperative CT in the past two years — and positive patient experiences, like that of Nestor. “People hear a lot of horror stories about back surgeries, but they rarely hear the good ones,” says Bellotte. “We’re here to help.”

In addition to spinal surgery, the intraoperative CT is being used for brain surgeries and complicated surgeries to alleviate tremors associated with Parkinson’s disease.

“UPMC Hamot is a real special place with highly trained people,” explains Bellotte. “We’ve got great equipment and people who are willing to advance the field right here in Erie.”

First in the Nation

UPMC Hamot is making great strides in the delivery of care and recently made headlines for its robotic bronchoscopy, as well. In June 2018, UPMC Hamot became the first hospital in the country to use the technology to detect lung cancer earlier.

According to pulmonologist Stephen Kovacs, D.O., co-director of UPMC Hamot’s Comprehensive Lung Center, the ability to diagnose lung cancer earlier is life saving, since patients often show no symptoms until the disease has progressed. Lung cancer is often a “silent killer” as it is more common than the next four cancers combined — colon, breast, pancreas and prostate.

A controller-like device is used to navigate the flexible robotic endoscope to the periphery of the lung. UPMC Hamot is the first hospital in the United States to utilize the technology in detecting lung cancer earlier.

“We do have a lot of smokers in our region. We have a lot of strong family history and, up until recently, a lot of high-risk occupations that just would lead to destruction and damage in the lungs. So, it’s important that we find these people as early as possible so they can have the best outcomes,” explains Kovacs.

Early diagnosis is truly vital. For patients diagnosed with Stage I lung cancer, there is an over 85 percent five-year survival rate. At Stage IV, it is a less than 15 percent.

“Now that technologies and expertise and teams are coming together, like here at UPMC Hamot, it is really starting to move that needle where we are finding these things sooner, and we’re able to offer more curative therapies that are done here,” Kovacs notes.

The Auris system’s first of its kind, flexible robotic technology allows doctors to get out to the far reaches of the lung, to find cancers in their earliest, smallest, most difficult to detect stage, while also allowing the stability to perform biopsies that only a robotic system can. “The new system solves a lot of the problems of the older technology that we had,” says Kovacs. “It really builds on this as the next evolution for this particular diagnosis.”

It also appears to be a natural progression that UPMC Hamot is also the first hospital to use the robotic bronchoscopy with intraoperative CT — with the ability to add more applications in the future.

“I think it’s extremely important that people realize that the UPMC system has the credibility of excellence that helps move this needle forward so that not only can new technologies like this come onboard, but we can also bring teams into place and have the ability to be comprehensive around every single disease process,” says Kovacs.

“When you’re sick and your life depends upon it, you need to be in the best place that’s going to provide the best care.”

Heart Smart

In terms of heart health, last month, UPMC Hamot became the first hospital in Erie to utilize cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The imaging allows cardiologists to use radiowaves and powerful magnets to create pictures of a patient’s heart without using ionizing radiation.

According to cardiologist Randy Jeffrey, M.D., and radiologist Antonio Pena, M.D., cardiac MRI requires specialized training and expertise by radiologists, cardiologists and technologists. However, now having that technology in place at UPMC Hamot allows patients to get the imaging closer to home, rather than needing to travel out of town.

Such technology is vital for these patients, not as a screening tool but what medical experts consider a “question-and-answer” technology.

The cardiac MRI can be used for evaluating a wide variety of conditions from basic systemic heart disease to heart attacks, and whether the patient would be a good candidate for a procedure to open up the >

Cardiac MRI can provide detailed information on the type and severity of heart disease to help doctors decide the best course for treatment. Shown here are UPMC Hamot cardiologist Randy Jeffrey, M.D., and radiologist Antonio Pena, M.D.

mbabizmag.com • FEBRUARY 2019

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UPMC Hamot breast radiologist Ernestine Thomas, M.D., examines a breast image using tomosynthesis. Breast tomosynthesis is an advanced form of mammography, a specific type of breast imaging that uses low-dose X-rays to detect cancer early when it is most treatable.

earlier diagnosis — is necessary given the prevalence of breast cancer today. According to Thomas, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, which is why the American College of Radiology guidelines recommend that a woman begins screening at age 40.

In addition to traditional mammography, one of the most advanced screening tools available is tomosynthesis. Tomosynthesis, which was FDA approved in 2011, takes breast images from multiple angles, providing high-quality images and increased accuracy in detecting breast cancer, including more invasive breast cancer. At UPMC Hamot, all screening mammograms are performed with tomosynthesis.

arteries to improve heart function. The cardiac MRI also can be used to examine the heart muscle for indications of heart failure for possible treatment options.

“The breadth of population that this is going to apply to is very broad, from people with ischemic heart disease, to people with arrhythmias, to people that have some sort of concern for an infiltrative disease, something that’s actually affecting the heart muscle,” says Jeffrey. “It’s really something that would benefit all ages — anyone from your young adult all the way up to your 60s, 70s and beyond — in terms of being able to really help clarify diagnoses or confirm or even identify things that a lot of other modalities may help us suspect, but we can’t prove.”

Dense breast tissue can have a camouflaging effect and make it harder for providers to see anything abnormal there. With tomosynthesis, radiologists are able to view the breast in thin slices, almost looking at the breast layer by layer.

With traditional mammography, women with dense breast tissue are often recalled for a diagnostic exam. Tomosynthesis has been shown to decrease the recall rate, which is advantageous in terms of women with anxiety and overall health care.

For patients, the cardiac MRI takes about 45 minutes. A physician is usually present at the scanner at the time of image acquisition to assist in performing the scan. They interpret the images as they are taken, possibly changing position as needed depending on each patient.

According to Thomas, initially when UPMC Hamot started offering tomosynthesis, it provided a two-dimensional image in addition to the tomosynthesis, or a combination mammogram. But, since then, there has been the creation of a synthetic two-dimensional mammogram from the tomosynthesis images — eliminating the need for the conventional 2D mammograms.

“The main thing is the resolution that we can see on these types of images, which is very clear,” says Jeffrey. “We can really delineate borders of the heart, what it’s doing and calculate very accurate assessments of how the heart is pumping.”

“Now, by doing just the tomosynthesis and generating this synthetic two-dimensional mammogram, the radiation is approximately half and is essentially equivalent to a woman getting just a two-dimensional mammogram,” she says.

Adds Pena, “It shows the cross-sectional pictures of a heart with a much higher resolution, and it also differentiates the tissues. You can see muscle from fat. You can see fluid. You can see pericardia, the lining of the heart, much better. We can see the vessels much more completely, and it shows you much wider variety in imaging.”

Currently, tomosynthesis is covered by Medicare, and most insurances are covering it in the screening setting, so the biggest decision for patients is choosing their imaging center.

UPMC Hamot already has the capability to provide cardiac CTs, which is another non-invasive procedure to look at coronary arteries and the heart to help avoid unnecessary catheterization. “It’s sort of complementary to the cardiac MRI,” says Pena. “The MRI will show us more of the cardiac muscle and function, while the CT will be better at showing each specific coronary artery. We’re the only hospital in the region that has this technology, which is also very useful for answering important questions non-invasively.”

Other new, more cutting-edge imaging modalities are coming out with the MRI, and UPMC Hamot’s cardiac team expects to be at the forefront — in technology and expertise.

“I can say from the team that I work with, the comprehensive aspect of general cardiology, imaging cardiology, electrophysiology and interventional cardiology is fantastic,” says Jeffrey. “We can really take care of everything, and I have a lot of confidence in my fellow providers and what they can do for people. Just adding this technology helps complete a lot of the offerings that we have here to be able to take care of people.”

Breast Health

Technology is a big part of the health-care puzzle, but finding a facility that has the right resources is critical, especially when it comes to breast health. In fact, UPMC Hamot is proud to be the first facility in Erie County to offer breast tomosynthesis or “3D mammography.”

Breast radiologist Ernestine Thomas, M.D., who joined UPMC Hamot about three and half years ago, says the need for such imaging — and

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“There are so many advantages to tomosynthesis,” says Thomas. “It’s just a better mammogram. It’s been shown that it can be more sensitive and can find more breast cancers in women of all breast densities, but especially in women considered to be heterogeneously dense.”

FEBRUARY 2019 • mbabizmag.com

“UPMC would definitely be your choice for breast imaging because we’re innovative, our technology is cutting edge, and we really provide a holistic approach to treating the patient,” says Thomas. “We have a comprehensive breast center where our radiologists are fellowship trained, so you will be getting expert care. In addition, we are the only site in Erie that’s performing the synthetic mammogram currently.”

From breast health to overall health, it’s one of the many ways that UPMC Hamot is providing a clear vision for care in both its expertise and technology.

For more information, visit www.UPMCHamot.org.

UPMC Hamot is marking many firsts in health-care technology: • The UPMC Department of Neurosurgery offers intraoperative CT, an innovative level of precision in spine surgery that works similarly to global positioning.

• In June 2018, UPMC Hamot became the first hospital in the country to use robotic bronchoscopy to detect lung cancer at an earlier stage.

• On January 14, 2019, UPMC Hamot became the first hospital in Erie to utilize cardiac MRI. • UPMC Hamot is the only site in Erie generating a synthetic 2D mammogram from tomosythesis, which decreases the radiation a women is exposed to when she has a screening mammogram performed with tomosythesis.

SPOTLIGHT Q&A| NONPROFIT

Behind the Business of Blood Donation For more than 50 years, the Community Blood Bank (CBB) of Northwest Pennsylvania and Western New York has been in the business of saving lives. Here, Executive Director Deanna Renaud discusses the importance of making a blood donation and ways that businesses can get involved.

You became executive director of the Community Blood Bank this past July. Tell us more about your experience and your goals for the organization in 2019.

I started at the blood bank as a Donor Recruiter in 2005, so my goal since Day 1 has been to educate our communities about the need for blood donors, and ensure there is enough blood for patients who need it. In this new role, I’ve been fortunate to make connections with community and business leaders, and work more closely with our partner hospitals. I’m excited to make CBB a bigger part of the communities we serve, and grow our donor base even further. As the exclusive blood supplier to the hospitals here in Erie County, and to many others in the region, community really does come first for us.

The Community Blood Bank has been the supplier of blood products to hospitals throughout our region since 1966. Please describe the Community Blood Bank’s reach, including your newest partners in DuBois and Clearfield counties.

Community Blood Bank was established to meet the blood needs of the major hospitals in Erie County, which now are UPMC Hamot, Saint Vincent Hospital and Millcreek Community Hospital. As other hospitals saw our model of resident blood donors meeting their own hospital’s needs, they realized the benefits of partnering with CBB. Through the blood donations given in each community, we now serve 20 hospitals in Northwest Pennsylvania and Western New York. We also supply blood to six Stat MedEvac bases.

In July, we became the exclusive blood supplier to Penn Highlands Healthcare after a

longstanding relationship with Penn Highlands Elk in Saint Marys. We’re focused on developing relationships with businesses and organizations in DuBois, Clearfield and Brookville.

It’s estimated that every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. What is the true impact of one donation?

There’s a saying in blood banking that one donation — 30 minutes out of your day — can impact the lives of three people. But it’s not just the patients. It’s their parents, children, spouses — everyone who cares for them feels the impact of that single donation. A blood transfusion can literally save someone’s life.

But it can also be part of an ongoing treatment plan that gives someone the time to make more memories.

Although many people want to help, experts indicate that less than 38 percent of the population is eligible to give blood or platelets. So, who can be a blood donor?

That’s correct, and of that 38 percent, less than 3 percent actually give blood. The basic requirements are to be feeling healthy (no colds, sore throats, etc.), weigh at least 110 pounds, have no tattoos or body piercings in the last 12 months and show photo ID. Eat well before donating, and drink plenty of water in the 24 hours before and after your donation.

any money, and it is very convenient. We can set up inside or bring the bloodmobile.

Nearly 75 percent of blood donations come to us through a mobile drive, so we are very experienced in ensuring a safe, efficient process that gets employees back to their day with minimal disruption. While few people talk about the need for blood, business owners soon realize their employees have connections to blood recipients. Cancer patients, for example, use a variety of blood products in their treatment, so the opportunity to give blood is something many employees are grateful for.

What’s involved in hosting a drive at your place of business?

Our Recruiter will help identify a date and time that works for the business. We provide recruitment ideas, flyers and other supplies that might be helpful. We often have a raffle that employees can take part in, and we offer points toward our point store for every donation. We simply need a contact person or team to help employees sign up. The most successful drives are the ones supported by leadership.

What’s the best way to learn more about the Community Blood Bank and its services?

You can call us at 814/456-4206, email us at info@fourhearts.org or visit www.fourhearts.org.

Many business owners want to get involved and give back to the communities in which they operate.

Please explain why hosting a blood drive is a good option.

A company blood drive is a great option because it doesn’t require employees to give

mbabizmag.com • FEBRUARY 2019

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SEPTEMBER 21, 2019 The Erie Walk to End Alzheimer’s will take place on September 21, 2019 at Perry Square in downtown Erie. Nearly 1,500 people are expected at this year’s event to raise awareness and funds to fight Alzheimer’s disease.

alz.org/walk 8

FEBRUARY 2019 • mbabizmag.com

LEGAL BRIEF | EMPLOYMENT LAW

The New Age of Sexual Harassment: Protect Your Employees and Yourself developing or expanding your employer sexualharassment training program: • Start with a message from your leader.

A short video or in-person speech from your CEO, executive director or other organizational leader can set the tone for the entire training program.

• Don’t use the “law” as the reason for the training. When explaining the reasoning for implementing a training program, refrain from stating “the law says we have to.” Rather, it is important to emphasize that this training is being done in accordance with the core values of the organization.

• Utilize a variety of training methods.

Break lengthy training courses into multiple “micro learning” sessions. This helps employees pay attention and retain more of the information, explore different issues related to sexual harassment and implement different learning methods throughout the training program.

Gaelin P. Carrig is an associate in the Litigation Department at MacDonald Illig where she concentrates her practice in the areas of insurance defense and personal injury. She is also a member of the Firm’s Commercial/General Litigation Practice Group. Carrig received her Juris Doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. Sexual harassment has been the center of the national conversation for the past year.

In the midst of the #MeToo movement and the numerous celebrity sexual-harassment allegations and lawsuits, an issue that for years was on the back burner has been illuminated by our media. Employers should take this past year as a catalyst to scrutinize their sexualharassment policies and procedures in order to ensure their employees are protected.

Employers must also consider the implications that sexual-harassment allegations would have on their organization.

Currently, the most effective and prevalent solution to sexual harassment in the workplace

is prevention and training of employees.

Prevention should be accomplished by the implementation of sexual-harassment training for all employees.

As the issues surrounding sexual harassment remain in the national spotlight, more legislation relating to sexual-harassment training is likely to be passed. Five states, including California, Delaware, Connecticut, Maine and New York, have already statutorily mandated sexualharassment training. Delaware, the most recent state to pass such a statute, mirrored the ideas set forth by other states. Delaware’s statute obligates employers with 50 or more employees to provide sexual-harassment training for all employees and supervisors. The Delaware law became effective on January 1, 2019.

Currently, Pennsylvania mandates sexualharassment training for all state employees.

However, as the trend moves towards implementing sexual-harassment training across all realms of employees, Pennsylvania may eventually statutorily mandate training for all employees. Employers should utilize this time to implement or update their sexualharassment training.

First and foremost, employers should structure sexual-harassment training with the intention of preventing harassment; rather than as a method to protect themselves from liability after the fact.

Consider This The following are additional steps to take when

• Tailor training to the organization’s unique situation. According to the Center for American Progress, the three industries that filed the most sexual-harassment complaints to the EEOC from 2005 to 2015 were: 1) accommodation and food services, 2) retail, and 3) manufacturing. These industries don’t reflect the typical “office-like” setting that usually goes hand in hand with the image of sexual harassment. Training programs should be specifically tailored to best serve the employer’s industry. For example, assessments and role-playing scenarios should be specific to your organization or industry. Further, an organization’s policies and procedures for remediation when harassment occurs should be detailed and align with its organizational structure.

• Train across the board. Some employers have sexual-harassment training in place for those who have been accused of or are a victim of sexual harassment. However, sexual-harassment training should be implemented to all employees of an organization. The purpose of a training program is to prevent sexual harassment from occurring in the first place, rather than remediating the behavior after the fact.

It is essential for all employers to begin building and implementing a strong sexualharassment training program. If you have any questions about sexual-harassment training, contact Gaelin Carrig at 814/870-7764 or any member of the MacDonald Illig Labor & Employment Practice Group. mbabizmag.com • FEBRUARY 2019

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BUSINESS BUZZ | WHAT’S NEW MILLCREEK TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT UNVEILS MANUFACTURING ACADEMY

The Millcreek Township School District recently announced its latest academic program initiative, the McDowell High School Manufacturing Academy. The program is for workforce-oriented students to assist with career readiness and internship experience.

Students who successful complete the program will be awarded a Manufacturing Academy Certificate at graduation along with their OSHA 10-Hour Safety Certification Card.

Several representatives from partner companies attended the December 12 press conference to support the District with its new enterprise. A tour was provided showcasing some of the equipment being used for the program.

Local manufacturing companies, such as Modern Industries, PHB, Inc., Reddog Industries, The Plastek Group, Micro Mold and Plastikos, and Rehrig Pacific are all partners in the academy, as well as Edinboro University, GeoSource and Telerob USA.

The McDowell High School Manufacturing Academy will train students for entry-level manufacturing jobs.

ERIEZ, DOMINO’S MARK LONGTIME PARTNERSHIP

Eriez also hosted live testing from its state-ofthe-art media room for Supply Chain managers from all over the world that could not make a trip to Eriez headquarters in Pennsylvania. “The online demonstration enabled us to watch the testing in real time — as if we were standing right at the equipment — which saved us thousands in travel expenses,” Popa stated.

For more information, visit www.mtsd.org.

KNOX LAW RECEIVES NATIONAL, REGIONAL RANKINGS IN 10 PRACTICE AREAS FOR 2019 BEST LAW FIRMS LIST

Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. has received national and regional rankings in 10 practice areas by U.S. News – Best Lawyers® for the 2019 “Best Law Firms” list.

The firm received a National Tier 2 ranking for Land Use & Zoning Law and a National Tier 3 ranking for Public Finance Law. The metropolitan rankings for the Pittsburgh region include a Tier 1 ranking in five practice areas: Commercial Litigation, Employment Law – Management, Land Use & Zoning Law, Public Finance Law, and Workers’ Compensation Law – Employers.

The metropolitan rankings also include a Tier 2 ranking in the Pittsburgh region for four practice areas: Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law, Health Care Law, Litigation – Bankruptcy, and Real Estate Law. Knox Law also received a Tier 3 metropolitan ranking for Labor Law – Management.

Firms included in the 2019 “Best Law Firms” list are recognized for professional excellence with persistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. To be eligible for a ranking, a firm must have a lawyer listed in The Best Lawyers in America®, the oldest and most highly-respected peer review guide to the legal profession worldwide.

For more information, visit www.kmgslaw.com.

For more information, visit www.eriez.com.

Domino’s and Eriez , two established companies who are leaders in their respective trades, recently celebrated 17 years of doing business together. On November 8, 2018, Eriez Metal Detector Product Manager Ray Spurgeon presented Domino’s Steve Covert, director of Supply Chain Strategic Projects, and Domino’s Reliability Maintenance Engineer Mike Popa, with a plaque in Ann Arbor, Michigan, recognizing the milestone. ®

®

According to a press release, Eriez® metal detectors have been in use at Domino’s since 2001, operating at their Supply Chain Centers worldwide inspecting rounded dough and fresh toppings. Most recently, Domino’s initiated the process of upgrading their equipment with Eriez’ newest Xtreme® Metal Detector models.

In a press release, Covert stated, “Eriez is a wonderful partner and that’s why we selected them as our preferred supplier. Our metal detectors are an integral part of our HACCP program and Eriez’ reliability and support are unsurpassed. Further, each of our Supply Chain Centers has a variety of layout limitations and Eriez engineered custom solutions for each of our production lines.”

Domino’s also utilized Eriez’ 22,000-squarefoot Central Test Lab to ensure their stringent sensitivity requirements were met. Popa explained, “Product was sent from local stores

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and a team from Domino’s visited Eriez to witness the test.”

ERIE FCU ANNOUNCES SPECIAL PATRONAGE BONUS FOR SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR

Erie Federal Credit Union has announced that the credit union will pay a special patronage bonus to its membership for the second consecutive year.

The Patronage Bonus of $600,000 is larger than the previous year and was paid to eligible members prior to January 31, 2019. Previously, Erie FCU paid nearly $550,000 to 51,521 eligible members under its first patronage bonus program.

The Patronage Bonus was developed to distribute an equitable bonus back to members based on their individual account relationship and usage of Erie FCU products and services over the past calendar year.

“2018 was another extremely successful year for Erie Federal Credit Union and the Patronage Bonus reflects our dedication to sharing that success with our members while contributing to the communities we serve,” said CEO Brian Waugaman.

Since its inception in 1936, Erie Federal Credit Union has grown its membership to close to 60,000 with assets of more than $490 million.

For more information, visit www.eriefcu.org.

PEOPLE BUZZ | AWARDS AND PROMOTIONS SAINT MARY’S HOME OF ERIE APPOINTS NEW CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Saint Mary’s Home of Erie recently announced that Stacy J. Kemmler, BS, CPA has been named chief financial officer.

Kemmler attended Clarion University of Pennsylvania and received a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a major in accounting. She is a member of the PA Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA). She has served as the controller at Saint Mary’s Home of Erie since July 2017.

Kemmler previously held positions as controller at Beacon Light Behavioral Health Systems in Bradford, as well as Deerfield Behavioral Health in Erie.

Founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Northwestern Pennsylvania in 1884, Saint Mary’s Home of Erie is a Continuing Care Retirement Community that has served the Erie community for more than 130 years.

WALKER FILTRATION INC. HIRES FINANCIAL CONTROLLER

Walker Filtration Inc. recently announced the hiring of Andrew (Drew) Ennis as its new financial controller.

In his role, Ennis’ primary responsibilities are to ensure company profitability and oversee the human resource function of the company.

Ennis joins the Erie-based office with many years of experience as a previous manufacturing controller and CFO. He graduated from Mercyhurst Prep before continuing on to John Carroll University (JCU) to earn an accounting degree. After graduating from JCU, he worked as a public accountant in Cleveland before returning to his hometown to work in the manufacturing industry.

Walker Filtration Inc. has been located in Erie for more than 15 years and delivers compressed air and gas filtration and drying technology throughout the United States, Central and South America.

KEYSTONE BLIND ASSOCIATION APPOINTS NEW CEO

The Keystone Blind Association has announced that Laurie Staph has been named as the organization’s new president and chief executive officer.

Staph is a 1996 graduate of Union High School in New Castle, Pennsylvania, attended Gannon University in Erie where she obtained her Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting, graduating Summa Cum Laude, and earned her Master of Business Administration in 2001 from Gannon University. She worked as an auditor with KPMG, LLP in Cleveland for two years prior to coming back to the area and working as a senior auditor at Black, Bashor & Porsch in Sharon for seven years. In 2010, Staph was hired by Keystone as the chief financial officer and vice president of Finance until she was promoted to senior vice president of Finance in 2015. She is a member of the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants, as well as a member of the American Institute of Public Accountants. She is also a member of the Board of Directors of Unique Source.

In addition to Keystone Blind Association, Staph will serve as the president and CEO of Keystone Independence Management, which handles the day-to-day operations of six agencies across the state of Pennsylvania. These agencies provide health and human services for blind and visually impaired individuals, as well as employment opportunities for blind and/or disabled individuals through various contracts for products and services at the federal, state and local level.

Keystone provides service programs such as orientation and mobility training, vision rehab therapy services, low vision services, computer access technology services, and prevention of blindness and education programs to individuals in Mercer, Crawford, Lawrence, Beaver, Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties in Pennsylvania and Columbiana, Mahoning and Trumbull counties in Ohio.

www.sarahareed.org 814-878-2600

227 West 22nd Street • Erie, PA 16502

Continuing Care Retirement Community

Residential Apartments Personal Care Memory Support Unit Skilled Nursing Short-Term Rehab Private Rooms

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Celebrating Our 20th Anniversary "Thank you for not giving up on me."

"I am a strong, confident, and happy person."

SafeNet provides free and confidential services to victims of domestic violence including: 24/7 Hotline Service Emergency Shelter Counseling and Advocacy Legal Representation

Transitional Housing Education and Training Programs for Children

"Reclaim your life" 24/7 crisis hotline: (814) 455-8161 Learn more at safeneterie.org or call (814) 455-1774

3608 West 26th Street Erie, PA 16506

814-836-8677 For Any Emergency Dial 911

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FEBRUARY 2019 • mbabizmag.com

ON THE HILL | GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

Pennsylvania Should Care About Small Business Association Health Plans Would Ease Insurance Burden

Jezree Friend is the Manufacturer & Business Association’s government relations representative and is responsible for developing legislative priorities and strategies; encouraging membership grassroots activities; and lobbying on behalf of a pro-growth, pro-business agenda.

Contact him at jfriend@mbausa.org.

Small businesses are the largest job creators, employ just under half of all private sector employees and should be the continual focus of our state’s retention efforts. After all, if businesses grow, so does the state’s ability to collect more taxes, without having to raise them.

It’s a win-win, right?

So What’s the Problem?

Health insurance has remained one of the highest costs of doing business for employers. Rates continue to skyrocket with the most severe impact affecting small to mid-size companies. The majority of companies with fewer than 50 employees are paying a disproportionate amount with the increases becoming unsustainable. Many companies have passed the increased costs on to their employees or made the difficult decision to eliminate health insurance as a benefit all together. Those who choose to absorb the increases, eliminated the potential for pay raises and froze hiring efforts.

How Do We Fix This?

If only there was a way for small businesses to group together to allow insurance carriers the ability to spread out the risk. If small business could band together and be rated in the large group market, they would have a larger buying power to negotiate for discounted coverage. Something those rated in the small group market are unable to do.

Good news: Association health plans (AHPs) allow for this very thing, and thanks to a recent rule change by the Department of Labor, they are once again available for the first time in years. Bad news: If you are a small business owner in Pennsylvania, you are unable to join those already enjoying this financial relief in the majority of other states.

Why? Pennsylvania is concerned with provisions in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) rather than the financial burdens placed on our small businesses. However, their concern is shortsighted; allow me to elaborate.

First, the new AHP regulations will not return the health-care market to a “pre-ACA” world. In fact, every AHP is, by definition, a “group health plan” subject to consumer protections under an array of federal laws. In effect, an AHP is the same type of health plan a large employer offers, subject to the same rules and requirements applicable to a large employer plan.

Second, Pennsylvania fails to recognize that AHPs will provide comprehensive coverage. Small employers — just like large employers — want to attract and retain talented workers and keep their employees healthy and productive. Since they lack the resources and bargaining power of big employers, however, the

majority of small employers are unable to offer comprehensive coverage at an affordable price.

Lastly, Pennsylvania is concerned if they allow AHPs to operate in the state, there is potential for fraudulent plans. However, since 1983 regulatory framework has been in place to prevent this very thing.

The ACA, which is still the law of the land, established improvements in reporting and stronger enforcement tools designed to reduce fraud and abuse.

There is no factual basis for concluding the past is a prelude here. The nature of the market itself has changed — and in a way that strongly incentivizes current and future AHPs not to engage in fraud and abuse their predecessors committed.

In fact, before it was discontinued, the Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA) offered this benefit for nearly 50 years without fraudulent interference and its fully-insured programs covered up to as many as 50,000 lives.

Most can agree quality coverage is important, want to offer it, and protections should allow for this.

However, we cannot ignore that in the first five years after AHPs were discontinued, 25 percent of small businesses providing health insurance were no longer financially able to provide this benefit and that number has grown.

Great news: The MBA is partnering with state legislators, administration officials, business owners and similar organizations to ensure Pennsylvania small businesses enjoy the same financial relief the majority of the country now relishes. Contact me at jfriend@mbausa. org to share your story and learn more. mbabizmag.com • FEBRUARY 2019

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The Foundation of any Insurance Agent Relationship is the Professional Quality of the People in Charge of Servicing the Account.

Our business is a knowledge business, and our advantage is our people.

When it comes to insurance…we feel we finally have a company which actually analyzes every year what we need…versus one that just rubber stamps an updated old policy and wants us to play golf.

Jay Baker, President Jamestown Plastics, Inc.

“The Bloomstines”

• • • • •

Responsive Technical Knowledge Business Judgment Sense of Urgency Task Orientation

Commercial, Industrial, Institutional & Construction Property, Liability, Cyber, Workers’ Compensation & Contract Surety Insurance Agents Lloyd’s London Correspondents and Correspondent Brokers Worldwide John Bloomstine, CPCU, ARM 814-452-3200 john.bloomstine@imcerie.com www.imcerie.com

New name Same commitment HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Erie has been committed to a higher level of rehabilitative care for our patients and their families. Under our new name, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Erie, we continue to provide the same inpatient rehabilitative care you have come to expect, connecting patients to superior outcomes and a better way of life.

The Joint Commission Disease-Specific Care Certification in Brain Injury Rehabilitation, Parkinson’s Disease Rehabilitation, Orthopedic Rehabilitation and Stroke Rehabilitation

143 East Second Street Erie, PA 16507 814.878.1200 encompasshealth.com/erierehab

©2019:Encompass Health Corporation:1371893-15

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HR CONNECTION | WORKPLACE TRENDS MORE EMPLOYERS OFFER FINANCIAL INCENTIVES TO ENCOURAGE WELLNESS

A recent RAND employer survey indicates that nationally, of the employers offering workplace wellness programs, over two-thirds (69 percent) used financial incentives as a strategy to increase participation. Incentives for health risk assessment completion and lifestyle management programs were most common — offered by about 30 percent of employers with a wellness program.

According to GlobalFit, rewards and reimbursements are often the tipping point to get employees to participate in exercise programs. The company found that a staggering 94 percent of employees would invest more in their health and fitness if their company reimbursed them, yet only 33 percent of companies are reimbursing employees for gym memberships and other healthy living expenses.

Educate Your Employees on the Value of Voluntary Benefits

Here are some examples of incentives:

Offering voluntary benefits is a great way to enhance your benefits package, differentiate from competitors and increase employee satisfaction with little impact on your budget. While employers may offer various types of voluntary benefits that provide convenience and value for employees, many employees do not understand the advantages of these benefit options or are unclear how they work. Educating employees on the advantages of these voluntary benefits is important so that you both can reap the rewards.

Demonstrate Value When compared to employer-sponsored benefits, many employees may fail to see the value of voluntary benefits that they must personally finance. When promoting voluntary benefit options, discuss the benefits of having coverage, the risks of going without and emphasize the convenience and value of purchasing through the company and paying through payroll deductions.

• Associating scores from HRAs to discounts on health-care premiums. People who don’t qualify for the discount can be offered coaching programs and resources for improving their HRA scores.

• Encouraging holistic well-being programs, where employees, and even their spouses, engage in challenges to earn points toward rewards.

Often, these programs tie in incentives to reduce employee tobacco use.

• Hosting weight-loss challenges that include cash prizes and weekly gift cards, as well as regular walking contests to keep things fun and competitive.

Coverage Education It is important that employees fully understand their policy so that misunderstanding does not lead to resentment toward the employer.

• Offering onsite classes — for example, Zumba, yoga, etc. — and annual health fairs filled with engaging health and wellness activities for employees.

When offering any benefit option, employer-paid or voluntary, you should be sure your employees understand exactly how the coverage works. Here are a few ways to make sure your employees are educated about their benefits:

For more information on the RAND survey, visit www.rand.org.

• Invite current employees to the benefits meetings provided for newly hired individuals.

• Many voluntary benefits providers are willing to send a representative to discuss their coverage with employees.

• While most benefits administrators don’t have time to meet individually with employees, consider scheduling small-group meetings with a few employees who have questions.

• Enhance your existing benefits communication program with social media. Social media provides a convenient and effective way to reach out to your employees with educational information, tips and reminders.

Employer Advantage In addition to boosting participation in your voluntary benefits programs, providing this meaningful education can position you as a valuable source of knowledge and strengthen employee satisfaction and loyalty to your company.

SURVEY: MORE THAN 20 PERCENT OF AMERICANS SKIP MEDICAL CARE DUE TO THE COST

Medical experts agree that prevention is key, however, according to a recent Bankrate survey of 1,000 adults, 22 percent of respondents said they or a close family member opted not to get necessary medical care because of the cost, while 77 percent said cost worries had led them to avoid care.

Of those who admitted skipping a doctor’s visit in the past year, 29 percent got their insurance coverage in the individual marketplace, such as the Affordable Care Act exchanges, and 22 percent were covered under employee benefit plans. About 17 percent were Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries.

According to the survey, women feel significantly less secure than men when it comes to health care. When asked if they had chosen not to get medical care in the past year, 25 percent of women answered “yes,” compared with 18 percent of men. Nearly half (47 percent) of women said a bill they paid in the past 12 months was more expensive than they anticipated, versus 35 percent of men.

Melissa Damico is the manager of Client Services at the Manufacturer & Business Association.

Contact her at 814/833-3200 or mdamico@mbausa.org.

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HR Q&A | GET ANSWERS CAN AN EMPLOYER REQUIRE AN EMPLOYEE TO USE THE SERVICES OF AN EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM?

Situations in which an employer may mandate the use of an employee assistance program (EAP) are rare. The Employee Assistance Professionals Association (EAPA) in its Standards and Professional Guidelines indicates, “Employees may voluntarily seek EAP assistance or they may be referred to the EAP through constructive confrontation. Job security will not be jeopardized as a consequence of seeking or using EAP services, except where mandated by law. However, employees who use an EAP are expected to adhere to the job performance requirements of the organization.” Employers are urged to consult with legal counsel when deciding on a standing mandatory EAP referral policy or for use in specific circumstances.

In general, an EAP referral is typically a matter of agreement between the employer and the employee.

Employers often provide information on EAP services to employees when there are performance issues or when the employee has disclosed to the employer that he or she is having difficulty dealing with personal issues. In extreme cases, such as workplace violence threats or suicidal thoughts, employers may consider a mandatory referral to an EAP. However, mandating EAP services may have implications under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Employers should focus on the employee’s job performance rather than on a real or perceived medical condition when making a mandatory EAP referral to avoid discrimination claims.

IS AN EMPLOYER PERMITTED TO ASK FOR A DOCTOR’S NOTE WHEN AN EMPLOYEE HAS A HEALTH-RELATED ABSENCE? This depends on the circumstances that prompt the request and the employer’s policies governing such requests.

Sick Leave. Maybe. An employer may generally request a doctor’s note as part of its sick leave or attendance policy. However, such a practice must be uniformly applied. The required note should not seek a diagnosis/ medical condition; rather, the note should verify that the employee was seen by the health-care provider and stipulate any period of incapacity or job-related restrictions. Requesting more information could run afoul of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

FMLA. Yes. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) permits employers to require employees to obtain a completed certification from the worker’s health-care provider to substantiate the need for FMLA leave. A subsequent request for a doctor’s note is generally considered a request for recertification, which is only permitted every six months or under certain circumstances.

Workers’ Compensation. Yes. It is generally permissible for employers to require a doctor’s note or release to return to work following a work-related injury or illness.

ADA. Yes. The ADA allows employers to request information from a doctor to find out more about the employee’s impairment and to determine whether it rises to the level of an ADA disability when the disability or need for accommodation is not apparent. This information may also be used to learn more about the severity of functional limitations and accommodation possibilities. Inquiries should be limited to the condition that requires accommodation. The EEOC provides enforcement guidance for disability-related inquiries and medical examination of employees under the ADA.

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Take Simple Steps To Prevent Job Stress Perhaps now more than ever before, job stress poses a threat to the health of workers and, in turn, to the health of organizations. Job stress can be defined as the harmful physical and emotional responses that occur when the requirements of the job do not match the capabilities, resources or needs of the worker. Job stress can lead to poor health and even injury.

While it is true that some stress probably is a good thing for most people, studies indicate that too much job stress has become a common and costly problem in the workplace.

Some proven methods for reducing job stress in any organization include the following: • Ensure that the workload is in line with workers’ capabilities and resources.

• Design jobs to provide meaning, stimulation and opportunities for workers to use their skills.

• Clearly define workers’ roles and responsibilities.

• Give workers opportunities to participate in decisions and actions affecting their jobs.

• Improve communications and reduce uncertainty about career development and future employment prospects.

• Provide opportunities for social interaction among workers.

• Establish work schedules that are compatible with demands and responsibilities outside the job.

Other initiatives to help balance the demands of work and personal lives include the following: • Telecommuting • Reduced work schedules • Providing onsite child care • Providing for such onsite concierge services such as car wash/oil changes, dry cleaning pick up/delivery, health-care clinics, and so on.

As with any type of benefits companies can offer to their employees, it helps to know what your employees are looking for. You can survey your employee population and ask what could help them ease the stress of trying to find a balance between their work and personal demands.

Stacey Bruce, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, is the director of HR Services at the Manufacturer & Business Association. Contact her at 814/833-3200 or sbruce@mbausa.org.

TOGETHER FOR HEALTH Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield and Allegheny Health Network are teaming up to remove boundaries and build bridges to make sure that you’re covered at every turn. Because staying healthy shouldn’t require jumping hurdles or navigating red tape.

With us, care is a collaboration. And we’ve got all hands on deck.

TOGETHER FOR YOU Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

2019 is Your Year to Reach Your Goals LECOM Medical Fitness & Wellness Center offers a wide variety of services that are designed for all fitness levels. Our center features state-of-the-art equipment, degreed and certified fitness staff, medical fitness programs and exercises classes that provide you with the best fitness experience possible.

Experience a Center with Amazing Features: • • • • • • • We have corporate membership options to fit your company’s needs. Whether you are looking to invest fully in your greatest asset or wanting to provide them with the best value for their own fitness needs we have an option for you. Our goal is to impact the well-being (happiness, healthiness, and productivity) of your team.

Learn more by calling (814) 868-7800 or visiting our website at LECOMWELLNESS.com LECOM Medical Fitness & Wellness Center | 5401 Peach Street, Erie, PA 16509

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Full-service spa Personal training Group exercise studios 25-yard lap pool Warm water therapy pool Medical fitness programs Child care

LECO

EVENTS & EXTRAS | NETWORKING & MORE

The Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA) strives to keep its members informed on the most current business issues affecting employers in the region. For more information about upcoming events or to view the MBA’s photo gallery, visit www.mbausa.org. ng its January Eggs ‘n’ Issues briefi The Association recently held te for 2019 at the MBA’s upda y energ an with bers to provide mem Conference Center in Erie.

Ken Lawton spoke on behalf of National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation.

Geoffrey Bristow shared inform ation on behalf of the Pennsylvania Department of Envir onmental Protection.

Marybeth Smialek of FirstEnergy addresses attendees at the January briefing.

MISSION: BORN & STAY HEALTHY At United Way of Erie County we recognize the importance of children and families having the resources they need - including those suffering with addiction. That’s why United Way was an early funder of the Women’s Recovery Center at Magee-Womens, UPMC Hamot through the Hamot Health Foundation.

United Way of Erie County

WE’RE ON A MISSION TO CRUSH POVERTY IN ERIE COUNTY.

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PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID ERIE, PA PERMIT #199

HERE’S THE

PLAN WHEN THE HAPPINESS OF YOUR EMPLOYEES DEPENDS ON THE NETWORK OF YOUR HEALTH PLAN, CHOOSE US. The success of any organization depends greatly on the health and happiness of its employees. That’s why it’s so important to choose the right health coverage. With UPMC Health Plan, your employees get affordable in-network access to the doctors and hospitals they trust. And you get a health plan that makes sense for your company.

Call your producer or visit upmchealthplan.com/employer

Highest Member Satisfaction in Pennsylvania

“Highest Commercial Satisfaction, Three Years in a Row!”

Network

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–J.D. Power

UPMC Health Plan received the highest score in Pennsylvania in the J.D. Power 2016-2018 U.S. Member Health Plan Satisfaction Studies of customers’ satisfaction with their commercial health plan. Visit jdpower.com.

Nondiscrimination statement UPMC Health Plan1 complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

UPMC Health Plan is the marketing name used to refer to the following companies, which are licensed to issue individual and group health insurance products or which provide third party administration services for group health plans: UPMC Health Network Inc., UPMC Health Options Inc., UPMC Health Coverage Inc., UPMC Health Plan Inc., UPMC Health Benefits Inc., UPMC for You Inc., and/or UPMC Benefit Management Services Inc.

1

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