Question

An employee at International Financial Consultants has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. The employee is enrolled in both the short-term and long-term disability plans at the time of diagnosis. The employee has already exhausted the benefits under the short-term disability plan. What is the next step the HR manager should take to help this employee with benefits coverage?

A. Advise the employee to apply for life insurance
B. Advise the employee to apply for long-term disability and to coordinate with Social Security to avoid duplication of coverage
C. Advise the employee to draft a will
D. Advise the employee to pick a richer medical plan to cover the high costs associated with cancer

Answer 1

The HR manager should assist the employee in exploring long-term disability benefits, discuss potential government-provided financial support such as Social Security disability payout or Supplemental Security Income, and provide information on the Pension Benefit Guarantee Corporation. Additionally, the HR manager might discuss updating the employee's medical plan to cover the costs associated with cancer.

Step-by-step explanation:

When an employee at International Financial Consultants has exhausted benefits under the short-term disability plan and is diagnosed with terminal cancer, the HR manager should explore options for long-term disability coverage. If the employee is not already receiving long-term disability benefits, the HR manager should assist the employee in the application process. Furthermore, the HR manager could also inform the employee about additional benefits such as Social Security disability payout or Supplemental Security Income if they meet the criteria. These government-provided benefits could offer financial support given the employee's inability to work and potential low-income status due to disability. Additionally, providing information about the Pension Benefit Guarantee Corporation may be beneficial if the employee is concerned about pension availability.

The HR manager might also discuss with the employee the possibility of modifying their medical plan or exploring additional coverage to address the high costs associated with cancer treatment. It's essential to approach this situation with compassion, understanding the emotional and psychological impact described by Elizabeth Kübler-Ross on the individual facing such a diagnosis.