Dec. 5, 2023
Important changes are coming to mental health benefits for Team LHSC employees.
In recognition of the need for improved support for overall wellbeing, LHSC is offering unlimited mental health benefits to all union and non-union employees who are enrolled in LHSC’s benefit plan, effective January 1, 2024. This coverage will extend to dependents and retirees. LHSC is a leader among health care organizations by offering employees unlimited mental health benefits.
The mental health benefit package will also be expanded to include a variety of service providers, allowing access to treatment from more professionals including psychotherapists, social workers and counsellors – both virtually and in-person.
“This evolution of mental health benefits is critically important,” said Julia Marchesan, Human Resources and Workforce Wellness Executive at LHSC. “Team members have expressed a desire to see the available coverage expanded, and we’ve listened. We are taking action to make sure they have the resources they need to support their wellbeing.”
The advancement in mental health benefits is also linked to LHSC's Strategic Plan, which was released earlier this year. LHSC’s Strategic Plan highlights the importance of LHSC being a workplace of choice, both now and into the future.
“Health care is a demanding job. We’re committed to strategies that will enhance our team members’ wellbeing so that they have the supports they need while caring for others,” said Kevin Chan, Acting President & CEO, LHSC.
“We want each individual to know we’re grateful for their dedication and that we’re committed to eliminating as many barriers as possible so they and their loved ones can access the care they need.”
We’re prioritizing the mental and physical well-being of Team LHSC, addressing both aspects of health. Recently, we opened two new fitness centres—one at Victoria Hospital and another at University Hospital. Both centres are open 24/7 and free to all LHSC employees as well as physicians, affiliates, learners and volunteers.