To be a leading resource for employer-sponsored health benefit plans in Idaho through education, collaboration and advocacy.
September 2021
We’re staying flexible.
It’s been almost two years to the day since the Employers’ Health Coalition of Idaho (EHCI) sent out renewal notices. In 2020 EHCI made the right decision to forego dues and move to a virtual meeting format. In 2021 it’s clear the virtual world is here for the immediate future. Conferences, seminars, staff meetings, or one-on-ones are now attended from kitchens, living rooms, offices and even closets.
The history of EHCI has been based in employee benefits. The pandemic highlighted the importance of the information EHCI provides in our meetings on the health – physical and mental – of employers and their employees. We’ve been excited to bring timely topics on vaccination policies in the workplace (a seemingly endless and ever changing landscape), mental health support while having employees work remotely, the impact of childcare on both employers and employees, and the list goes on.
At the time of this letter Idaho and the nation are entering a devastating time in the pandemic due to the rise in the delta variant of the COVID virus. Hospitals in Idaho are operating in crisis mode – impacting the ability for our health systems to operate and provide normal care let alone the intensive care many need right now. It’s a difficult time and situation. What do the numbers say? 98% or more of those in the hospital with a COVID diagnosis are unvaccinated. With only 39% of adults vaccinated, Idaho ranks 49th in the nation.
We live in a country supporting personal choice. The vaccine issue, like many other issues, has been one that has polarized communities and even families. The employer community is not immune from this discussion. More and more employers are grappling with how to operate and whether to require vaccines. You can know that EHCI will continue to bring experts – legal and health – to provide the latest information in this critical decision making process.
The success of EHCI depends on our members. It’s not about the dues, it’s about your participation in the conversation. Please feel free to reach out to any EHCI member if you have questions about various activities, speakers, legislative updates and advocacy.
Respectfully,
Norm Varin
Chairman 2021
