Frequently Asked Questions about the EAP Program:

1. What is the Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?
2. With what kinds of problems does the EAP provide assistance?
3. Is it really confidential?
4. How does the EAP work?
5. Is it really free to use?
6. Can the EAP really help me?
7. What kind of issues and questions do people bring to EAP?

1. What is the Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?

The EAP is an employee benefit which provides confidential short-term counseling, assessment, and referral services to employees and their families. EAP staff can meet with employees up to six times to help them assess problems and, when appropriate, refer them to community services for further assistance.

2. With what kinds of problems does the EAP provide assistance?

People who come to the EAP for help in dealing with a variety of problems such as financial, legal, emotional, substance abuse, family and other relationships. There is no problem too large or too small. (See list below.)

3. Is it really confidential?

Yes. Any information about you, including the fact that you are seen at Synchrony, is protected under federal regulations. Information regarding your health care, including payment for health care, is protected by two federal laws: the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (“HIPAA”), 42 U.S.C. 1320d et seq., 45 C.F.R. Parts 160 and 164, and for Substance Abuse Clients the Confidentiality Law, 42 U.S.C. 290dd-2. 42 C.F.R. Part 2. Under these laws, Synchrony may not say to a person outside of Synchrony that you used our services, nor may Synchrony disclose any information identifying you as an alcohol or drug abuser, or disclose any other protected information except as permitted by federal law.

4. How does EAP work?

There is no red tape. You can call for an appointment or call with questions. An EAP counselor can normally meet with you within three days of your call to help assess the problem and make appropriate referrals. In an emergency, we will meet with you the same day.

5. Is it really free to use?

If your employer provides EAP services as a benefit, there is no cost to you. If services beyond those provided by the EAP are recommended, the employee is responsible for the cost of those services. The EAP counselor will consider the employee's needs, insurance coverage, waiting lists, availability of lower cost treatment (sliding fee scales), and the employee's financial situation when recommending treatment options. The employee is under no obligation to the EAP to follow through with any of our recommendations.

6. Can the EAP really help me?

The EAP has assisted hundreds of employees and family members by helping them to identify problems and, when needed, referring them to the community resources which will most help them. We are aware that asking for help is difficult for many people; therefore, EAP staff will make every effort to make you feel as comfortable as possible during this process.

7. What kind of issues and questions do people bring to EAP?