Human beings are social creatures. We thrive on connections with others. Regular positive social interactions and strong social connections benefit us physically and emotionally and can actually lead to a longer life. But nurturing those connections is easier said than done, particularly with the prevalence of remote work and a full load of personal responsibilities. The cold, grey winter months make it even harder to get ourselves out of the house or out of routine. Here’s why it’s worth the effort.  

The Benefits of Social Connection

Multiple studies have shown that people with strong social bonds are healthier. The effects are significant and wide-ranging, from helping to maintain a healthy body mass index and decrease the effects of depression, to increasing cancer survival rates, not to mention the simple boost to overall mental health by spending time with people we enjoy. A strong social network can help you recover faster from illness or injury and better deal with stress. So, how do we nurture and strengthen these connections to lead a healthier life?

Nurturing Social Connection

THINK COMMUNITY

A hub of social connection, a healthy, safe, and resilient community offers support and inclusion to its members. Participating in a neighbourhood, school, church, hobby or interest group can help you feel connected to others. In turn, your involvement strengthens the community itself. Luckily, there are countless small ways to engage with or give back.

BUILD HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS

Meaningful and diverse connections with others are central to our emotional wellbeing. Our ties to friends, family, coworkers, and neighbours give us a sense of belonging, and these social networks can provide emotional and practical support and step in when we need help. Offering help to others boosts our health too. Strengthening relationships is an ongoing process but simple interactions can have a big impact.

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

Building healthy relationships starts with ourselves. The saying ‘you can’t pour from an empty cup’ is a great image to remind us to nurture our own wellness, especially if we’re taking care of others, or need help ourselves to muster the energy to be social. Self-care is crucial, whatever that may look like for you.

Take a moment to check in on your wellbeing. The more connected we are with ourselves, the more we gain from and give to our connections with others. 

This Wellness Moment is from Health Plus Insurance. Read our past Wellness Moments. From our family to yourself, take care. If you're a Health Plus plan member remember you have access to free professional Wellness Resources.

5 Good Reasons for Freelancers to Have Business Insurance Coverage (Guest Post)

Freelancers in Canada play a vital role in the national economy. Whether you're a freelance writer, independent consultant, or a solo entrepreneur, you are exposed to various risks in the course of your work. That's why it's crucial for freelancers to seriously consider having business insurance coverage in Canada. In this article, we will explore five compelling reasons why freelancers should consider purchasing business insurance.

1. Protection in Case of Disputes

One of the primary benefits of business insurance for freelancers is protection in case of disputes. If a client is dissatisfied with your work or if a third party suffers harm due to your professional activities, you could potentially face costly legal proceedings. Professional liability insurance can shield you by covering legal fees, settlements, and potential judgments. This allows you to work with peace of mind, knowing you have protection in place for such situations.

2. Financial Security in Case of Illness or Injury

Freelancers in Canada do not have the same benefits when it comes to sick leave or disability benefits as full-time employees. If you fall ill or are involved in an accident that prevents you from working, you could find yourself in a financially challenging situation. Business disability insurance can provide a safety net by disbursing benefits to offset a portion of your lost income in cases of temporary or permanent disability. This can help you maintain your standard of living and meet your financial needs during a difficult period.

3. Protection for Your Business and Equipment

If you use expensive equipment or tools in your freelance work, it's essential to safeguard them. Commercial property insurance can assist in covering the costs of replacing or repairing your equipment in case of theft, accidental damage, or natural disasters. Moreover, if your business heavily relies on your physical presence to generate income, disability insurance tied to loss of income due to illness or injury can help keep your business afloat in the event of your inability to work.

4. Managing Contract-Related Risks

As a freelancer, you may enter into contracts with your clients. These contracts might include liability clauses, delivery deadlines, and other commitments. In case of contract breaches or disputes arising from contractual obligations, you could be exposed to claims from clients. Professional liability insurance can aid in managing these risks by providing financial protection in case of contract-related litigation. This allows you to negotiate contracts with confidence, knowing you have coverage in place in case of issues.

5. Enhancing Credibility and Client Trust

Lastly, having business insurance can enhance your credibility as a freelancer in the eyes of your clients. Clients often seek professionals who take their business seriously and are willing to invest in protective measures. Having business insurance can set you apart from the competition and reassure your clients about your commitment to delivering quality and reliable work. It can also help you establish long-term trust-based relationships with clients, which can be invaluable for the long-term success of your business.

Conclusion

In conclusion, business insurance is a crucial element of risk management for freelancers in Canada. It provides protection in disputes, financial security in case of illness or injury, safeguards your business and equipment, helps manage contract-related risks, and enhances credibility with clients. While it may represent an additional cost, the benefits of business insurance far outweigh the drawbacks. By investing in appropriate insurance coverage, you can protect your business and financial future while strengthening your position in the market as a trustworthy and competent professional. Therefore, it is advisable for all freelancers in Canada to carefully assess their business insurance needs and select coverage that suits their specific circumstances.

With an increasing number of Canadians starting their own business, working freelance, or entering the ‘gig economy’, many workers do not have health and dental benefits. If you’re one of the millions of Canadians on their own for health insurance, you’ve likely asked yourself, ‘Is private health insurance worth it?’.

While not a requirement, private health insurance is generally a good idea to cover what’s not included in provincial coverage. Private plans can cover both routine expenses and protect you against the impact of large unexpected or ongoing health bills. As insurance advisors, we’ve seen the reality of medical bills, and always recommend a good plan. To come to your own conclusion about health insurance, here are a few questions to ask.

Do you already have coverage?

How much are you currently spending?

What you spend now on healthcare has a big impact on the insurance plan that is right for you. However, if you have few expenses now, don’t make the big mistake of only considering current spending. If you have no large health expenses, it can be hard to gauge the value of insurance. But the risk of future health issues and the expenses that come with them is very real. Understanding potential future costs should factor into your decision.

Medically underwritten vs. guaranteed acceptance

The insurance that will be right for you is closely related to your current health expenses. If you have an existing chronic or serious health condition and corresponding expenses, a guaranteed acceptance plan is likely your best option. These plans don’t ask medical questions and will pay for existing costs, which makes them a no-brainer for many people. However, if you have no or low health expenses, you will likely want a medically underwritten plan. After filling in a medical questionnaire you will save money on premiums and get better coverage. It’s important to know that these better value plans are typically only available to enrol in when you’re healthy. Learn more about what’s right for you.

What is your risk tolerance?

Insurance is all about managing risk and being prepared for the unexpected. Unfortunately, the risk of developing a chronic health issue or needing other expensive healthcare is very real. 44% of Canadian adults have a chronic health condition, with many specialty medications costing upwards of $10,000 per year. Will you be financially able to pay for large, unexpected health costs out of pocket?

Of course, an emergency fund is always a good idea, but are you comfortable with the risk that it may not cover the bills for necessary healthcare? In contrast, health insurance provides a manageable monthly expense you can budget for.  

If you'd like to get covered check out Health Plus plan options or get in touch to learn more and compare. 

5 Tips to Create a Healthy Workspace

We spend a huge part of our days  and lives working. It’s estimated that the average person will spend one third of their lives at work. That means creating a healthy work environment is essential for overall health, but it’s easy to get in a rut at work, sitting and staring at a screen all day. Here are some tips to be a little more intentional about your health, even while you’re working.

Take Screen Breaks

It’s not news that excessive screen time can be bad for our health, causing eye strain and impacting mental health. If you work in front of a screen all day, make sure to follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes look away from your screen at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to give your eyes a break.

Stand Up

Sitting is linked to countless negative health effects, including back pain, weight gain, and a higher risk of diabetes and heart disease. But what can you do if your job involves sitting at a desk all day? Try a standing desk, a walking meeting, or make a point to get up and stretch throughout your workday.

Connect With Other People

It’s easy to get lost in the tedium of day-to-day tasks, especially if you work from home. Developing and nurturing a sense of community combats isolation and helps you feel supported. Try reaching out to a colleague to grab a coffee or check out an industry event.

Declutter Your Space

We all work differently, including when it comes to organization. And that’s okay. But bringing some order to your workspace can boost your productivity and mood. Try a 5-minute tidy to refresh your space.

Take a Break

Burnout is a very real problem for Canadian workers. One way to combat overload is simply by taking a break, whether that means a vacation, staycation, or just regular time to yourself scheduled in your day. Taking a break will positively impact both productivity and mental health.

Bonus Tip: Utilize the benefits that come with your insurance plan

Health Plus Priority and Optimum plans include Telus Health (formerly LifeWorks) Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Available to all plan members, no matter where you work, your EAP provides confidential online counselling, digital resources for mental and physical health, and much more.

This Wellness Moment is from Health Plus Insurance. Read our past Wellness Moments.  From our family to yours, take care.  If you’re a Health Plus plan member remember you have access to free professional Wellness Resources.  

How to Use Your Benefits for Self-Care

A lot goes into good health. Luckily, you probably practice self-care whether you realize it or not. If you're looking to ramp up your self-care routine, the benefits provided with your insurance plan can help. 

Mental Health

Paying attention to our mental and emotional wellbeing is crucial to self-care. Mental health impacts our physical and social wellbeing. Accessing professional counselling through LifeWorks Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a great step for staying healthy. LifeWorks is available to all Health Plus PRIORITY and OPTIMUM plan members, no matter where you work. You and your dependents can connect virtually with a trained counsellor who will assess your unique needs, and access a wide range of digital resources.

Physical Health 

When your physical health is suffering, it impacts all areas of your life. Sometimes taking care of ourselves can feel like a challenge. Simple proactive steps can make a difference.    

• Visit a practitioner to help deal with a nagging injury before it becomes chronic
• Schedule your regular dental cleaning to help keep your teeth and gums healthy.  
• If you are struggling with medication, see if you are eligible for pharmacogenetic testing. Available to all Health Plus plan members, it tests your DNA drug compatibility.

Fitness

Physical activity helps manage stress, boost your mood and immune system, and reduce the risk of developing chronic illness. Increasing your level of activity can be as simple as going for a walk. Or try the LIFT online platform offered through LifeWorks. Complete an easy fitness evaluation then get access to a library of online workout videos targeted to your goals.

Financial 

Finances are a significant source of stress for many Canadians, especially in recent years. The simple decision to purchase health insurance is an act of self-care. It helps protect you from the often devastating financial impact of future health issues.

The Financial Wellbeing Toolkit available to Health Plus members in the LifeWorks portal provides excellent resources, whether you are currently struggling or just want to better prepare yourself for the future.

Knowledge

Learning more about how to improve physical, emotional, financial, and social wellbeing is an act of self-care. It doesn’t have to be a chore. Browse the Resources section of the LifeWorks portal for a topic of interest, whether that’s nutrition, leadership skills, coping with trauma, mindfulness, or balancing family and work life.

The ultimate reason for insurance is to protect yourself in case of serious illness or injury. But, that doesn’t mean it can’t be part of your self-care toolkit today. Learn more about Health Plus Wellness Benefits. Self-care is personal. Choose the resources that are best for you.

This November, Health Plus raised rates on our OPTIMUM and PRIORITY plans for the first time ever. This is unheard of in the insurance industry where rate increases are as common as the common cold. Our goal has always been to provide the best value health insurance plan on the market, without sacrificing the coverage that Canadians need. 

Why Now?

Trust us when we say we did not make this decision lightly. Healthcare costs in Canada are rising rapidly. This and the increased demand for healthcare services in a post-pandemic world have meant the cost of covering claims has also increased. To continue to provide the coverage and service plan members deserve rates had to go up. 

Save With Association Rates - Limited Time Only

Professional associations that partner with Health  Plus receive preferred pricing for their members. Now, we've extended that pricing to everyone if you apply by December 31st, 2022. Rates are guaranteed until November 2023. View Rates.

The Health Plus OPTIMUM Plan Is Now Even Better

We're continually committed to improving our Health Plus plans, as we have in each of the last five years. This year is no different. That's why we've made a few changes. 

What's New?

5 Common Small Business Employee Benefit Myths

The employee benefit plan is a staple of large corporations. But as a small business owner, you may feel you have no good options. Traditional group insurance is not cost-effective for groups of fewer than 10 people. This leaves owners with smaller teams with poor coverage options for astronomical rates. When you care about your team, even if that's just you and one other person doing the jobs of 5 people, are you out of luck? Short answer, no. 

Let's break down some common misconceptions about health insurance for small business. 

Myth #1: You need a minimum number of employees to offer benefits

Many small business owners assume only big companies can offer their people great benefits. That's not true. Whether you're a business or 1 or 5000, there are great insurance options. However, when it comes to insurance, one size does not fit all. A plan specifically designed for small business will give you the benefits you want and include measures to keep your costs reasonable. Individual insurance plans can also be great options that offer flexibility for small or growing businesses, or businesses with a lot of contract, part-time, or freelance workers who would otherwise not qualify for a traditional group plan. These plans are tax-deductible too. 

Myth #2: There are no options for part-time or contract workers

Part-time and contract workers tend to get the shaft when it comes to traditional group insurance programs. Group insurance rules stipulate that very small plans must cover all full-time employees. Part-time employees generally don't qualify at all. There are options available that include all workers regardless of full or part-time status. These plans can be portable, which means workers have the option to carry a plan with them between contracts, or if they change jobs. Health Spending Accounts (HSA) can also help provide benefits to a diverse group of employees. But keep in mind an HSA is not a replacement for insurance. 

Myth #3: Employee benefit plans aren't affordable for small business

Insurance rates are determined based on claims made by plan members, the employees in a traditional group plan. Due to size, a small business is at much larger risk for steep rate increases when employees use their insurance. We know, it doesn't seem fair. The good news is options such as Health Plus PRIORITY and OPTIMUM plans offer excellent coverage and keep rates low. They also give owners flexibility on who to cover and how much to contribute to the cost. The risk of high claims is dispersed across all the businesses who are members of the plans. This keeps rates stable. If you do opt for a group plan, a dedicated small business advisor can also help you keep costs down with a plan design that will work for you and your team. 

Myth #4: The administration of employee benefit plans is a lot of work

This can be true. Traditional group insurance plans require a fair amount of paperwork and it's your responsibility to make sure your employees enrol. However, if you choose to go the non-traditional route, you can get quality benefits and leave the administration to the insurance experts. 

Myth #5: Health insurance isn't that important anymore because employees want new perks such as remote work

While it's definitely true that today's workers care about holistic benefits, not just a pay cheque and a dental plan, health insurance is still incredibly valued. In fact, 8 in 10 Canadians value health insurance above other insurance included in benefits packages. As well, some plans already come with or can be designed to include additional health and wellness benefits, such as an Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), your team will appreciate.

Your business is unique. What works for someone else might not work for you. The best way to figure out what's right for you is do your research, talk with your team, and work with a qualified small business advisor. On top of offering exclusive health plans you won't find anywhere else, Health Plus is a licensed broker and expert in small business benefits.