Manager Referrals to the EAP

FIRSTCALL, Your Employee Assistance Program, can help when an employee's performance, attendance or substance abuse issues impact the workplace.  A Manager Referral can be an effective tool in improving productivity.  Managers may refer an employee to the EAP, either as a suggestion or as part of a disciplinary process.  A mandatory referral requires the employee to utilize the services of the EAP based on a documented violation of a stated company policy.

To initiate a manager referral, call 1-800-382-2377 to let us know the employee is being referred and the reason for the referral.  Ask the employee to sign a Confidential Release of Information Form so that we can communicate his/her attendance at the EAP and compliance with EAP recommendations to you.  Ask the employee to call 1-800-382-2377 to make an appointment.

Things to consider:

1. Is the referral mandatory?
2. Do your company's written policies support making an EAP referral mandatory?
3. Does your policy outline stages of disciplinary actions and consequences to the employee?
4. Will failure to comply result in termination?
5. Do you have a written agreement outlining steps the employee must take in order to retain his/her job?  This may be a Return to Work Agreement, a Continuing Employment Agreement or a Last Chance Agreement.
6. Has the employee signed a Confidential Release of Information Form so that the FIRSTCALL counselor can communicate with you regarding the employee's attendance at the EAP?

For a consultation regarding policy development or dealing with a troubled employee, please contact your FIRSTCALL account manager.

For more information about how FIRSTCALL can help your company, please contact our director of business development or call 1-800-382-2377.