Message from the Chair–December 2021

December 3 marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This year’s theme is “fighting for rights in a post-COVID era.” People with disabilities must be afforded a voice, inclusion, and participation. Since March 2020, countless people have been impacted by drastic political, social, and economic change as a result of domestic and international responses to COVID-19. This year, we acknowledge the challenges, barriers and opportunities for people who live with disabilities, in the context of a global pandemic.

As a Benefits Trust, the AOMBT has significant experience supporting and navigating our members through their diverse disability journeys. Through our partnership with Genex, our members are eligible to work with a designated Nurse Case Manager who will reach out to assist with early intervention and provide support services throughout the 90-day elimination period, as well as assist those members who may request assistance with the disability application and the return-to-work process. Further, our insurance provider, SSQ, who administers the disability leaves program, will provide rehabilitation services through their partnership with Metrics to those members who require this service. Finally, for midwives, in addition to Member & Family Assistance support services from Health InSight, Dialogue provides virtual health services, and a comprehensive stress and mental wellbeing platform.

Continuing to work with modifications due to a disability, and/or returning to work with modified working conditions can be a challenge. The AOMBT remains at the service of our members to support your physical, financial, and mental wellbeing.