5.1 The University System of New Hampshire recognizes that programs designed to increase health-related knowledge and self-awareness contribute to the improved well being of its faculty and staff, reduce medical costs, absenteeism and stress and help to promote positive morale and good employee relations.
5.1.1 Authority. The USNH Director of Organizational Wellness is responsible for monitoring, assessment, publicizing and promoting of health education program activities throughout the University System. The component institutions Human Resources Office shall designate an individual to coordinate and consult with the USNH Director of Organizational Wellness.
5.2 Embrace Life Fully (ELF) Program. The ELF program provides health promotion programs (e.g., nutrition and weight loss seminars, cancer screenings, smoking cessation, blood pressure clinics, cholesterol screenings, walking programs) to faculty and staff members. Some programs are provided free of charge, and others are provided on a cost shared basis.
5.2.1 Eligibility. All benefits eligible faculty and staff members may participate in the ELF programs. The University System of New Hampshire encourages the active involvement of faculty and staff members in the health promotion activities provided by the Embrace Life Fully program.
5.3 Visual Acuity Program. Employees who use a Video Display Terminal (VDT) on a frequent basis or have a position that requires a high degree of eye concentration are eligible for this program on a cost-shared basis 80%/20%. Depending on availability, a comprehensive eye exam will be administered by a pre-selected optometrist or ophthalmologist. Any follow-up exams, procedures, or purchase of corrective lenses as a result of any exam administered under this program will be the responsibility of the employee. Each campus will designate the specific time period during the year when exams will be offered. The USNH Benefits Office is responsible for funding and designating vendors.
5.4 Employee Assistance Program (EAP). The EAP strives to provide an effective program to assist faculty and staff members and their families in resolving problems such as alcoholism, drug abuse, marital conflicts and job performance issues. The Employee Assistance Program provides counseling, assessments and referrals to outside professional resources for faculty/staff members and their eligible family members.
5.4.1 Eligibility. All employees in benefits eligible positions, their spouses and dependent children are eligible to participate in the USNH Employee Assistance Program.
5.4.2 Confidentiality. Information regarding individual participation will not be disclosed without the written consent of the faculty or staff member.
5.4.3 Coverage. The faculty or staff member, his/her spouse, and dependent children will receive a number of free visits to the EAP for each situation.
5.4.4 Supervisory Referrals. Supervisory referrals may be made on behalf of a faculty or staff member whose job performance is deteriorating. Although supervisors may recommend the EAP, the decision to seek assistance through the EAP is the responsibility of the faculty or staff member. Supervisors shall not engage in diagnosis or in establishing treatment plans for employees.
5.4.5 Employment Status. Employment status will in no way be affected by the decision to seek assistance. The services of the Employee Assistance Program must be used on the faculty/staff member's personal time (i.e., accrued leave or earned time).