Pam interviewed on Arkansas' Radio's Fresh Talk 93.3 on Friday, February 17th at 6:35 AM. The discussion will center on workplace violence prevention. Visit the station's website for the live feed.
HHS releases Guidance on the new Summary of Benefits and Coverage Documents
February 16, 2012 By
On Feb. 9, 2012, the Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor and Treasury (Departments) released much-anticipated final guidance on the requirement for health plans and health insurance issuers to provide a summary of benefits and coverage to applicants and enrollees.
The final regulations, template and uniform glossary are available through the Department of Health and Human Services
FFG’s Special Policy Advisor, Pam Paziotopoulos interviewed on WGN Morning News
February 7, 2012 By
Tune in to WGN News Wednesday morning, February 8th, between 7:15 and 7:45 AM
Ms. Paziotopoulos began her career in 1990 as a prosecutor for the Cook County State's Attorney's Office in Chicago, focusing on the area of domestic violence. In 1996, she joined the American Prosecutor's Research Institute's Criminal Prosecution Division as a Senior Attorney traveling to 38 of the 50 states, conducting training and speaking on domestic violence. She oversaw curricula development and education in domestic violence prosecution, provided technical assistance to prosecutors and allied professionals, and developed training materials in the areas of domestic violence and stalking.
HHS Announces Proposed Rule for Uniform Benefit Summaries
August 19, 2011 By
On August 17, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for Uniform Benefit Summaries under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA).
Click here to view FFG's latest Legislative Update
FFG Speaks at Tampa SHRM Chapter
August 19, 2011 By
James Kordomenos and Pam Paziotopoulos present at HR Tampa on HealthCare Reform Law and Workplace Violence on Aug 17 at the Centre Club in Tampa, Florida.
Protecting Your Organization
Tips for avoiding mistakes related to wage and hour issues, how to create and maintain a thorough employment screening / background check program, how to address employee needs related to workplace and domestic violence, as well as policy recommendations, and ten tips HR directors need to know.
Rules for Internal and External Claim Reviews Revised
June 30, 2011 By
Last week, HHS, Treasury and Labor released revised regulations for group health plans which have not been grandfathered and insurers must now comply for internal claim procedures and external reviews. These revised regulations discuss a variety of issues. They are generally effective July 22, but certain enforcement grace periods still apply.
Click to view FFG's legislative update for more information
FFG VP, John Savas, SPHR, presents to NIU Executive Club
April 1, 2011 By
Forest Financial Group is proud to announce John Savas will be speaking to members of the NIU Executive Club on May 17th. The event is not open to the public. Details below:
The Business to Business Networking Committee will be hosting a breakfast event on May 17th at NEAL, GERBER & EISENBERG's offices in downtown Chicago. More information will be forthcoming concerning this event next week. The theme for the morning event will be:
"Talent Retention & Performance Management – Can they co-exist?"
FFG’s Special Policy Advisor, Pamela Paziotopoulos presents on Intimate Partner Violence
February 21, 2011 By
Forest Financial Group is proud to be attending the monthly meeting of HR professionals of Monterey Bay, California’s hospitality industry at Portola Hotel & Spa on Thursday, February 24th. FFG’s Special Policy Advisor, Pamela Paziotopoulos will be giving a presentation on intimate partner violence and its effects on employees in the workplace. The discussion will provide guidance on spotting the warning signs of intimate partner abuse, along with valuable information about what can be done to protect employees from the often fatal consequences of stalking in the workplace.
Click here to learn more about FFG's Speaker Bureau
Forest Financial Group Announces Relocation and Expansion
February 4, 2011 By
Company growth, expanded services and additional staff requires new office space
Lake Forest, IL — Forest Financial Group, an employee benefits consulting firm, is pleased to announce the relocation and expansion of its corporate offices to larger space in order to accommodate its growth and to better service its clients. Lake Forest, IL will still be home to Forest Financial Group who is moving to space that is more than double the size of its existing space. Contrary to the uncertainty in the economy and in the healthcare regulatory arena, Forest Financial Group continues to grow and expand its suite of service offerings.
Florida Federal Judge Declares Individual Mandate and the Reform Law Unconstitutional
February 4, 2011 By
On Jan. 31, 2011, Florida U.S. District Court Judge Roger Vinson, declared the "individual mandate" of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) unconstitutional, ruling the government cannot require Americans to purchase health insurance starting in 2014. Vinson concluded that, "Because the individual mandate is unconstitutional and not severable, the entire act must be declared void."