Lawn Games and Learning with CPBI Manitoba - Full Day Options

Session 1: Critical Illness: Awareness, Impact, and Protection

Jordan and Paul discuss the state of group critical illness insurance in Canada, the impact of a lump-sum payment for employee recovery and well-being, and what to look for when evaluating potential options.

The diagnosis of a critical illness can lead to significant financial strain due to costs not covered by a standard group plan, such as lost income, childcare, and home care. Critical illness insurance provides a lump-sum payment that employees can use as needed, offering crucial financial support during their recovery. With only ~15% of all Canadian groups offering critical illness insurance, employers that do are still considered “Early Adopters”. Canadians diagnosed with a critical illness such as cancer, will pay on average $33,000 in out-of-pocket expenses throughout their lifetime. Offering comprehensive benefits, including critical illness, demonstrates that an employer values employee wellbeing as financial instability continues to plague Canadians. The financial security provided by critical illness insurance can significantly reduce stress associated with a serious diagnosis, however it’s not just about checking the box and all critical illness policies are not created equal.

Jordan Rae, Business Development Manager, Western Canada

Based in Calgary, Jordan has spent the last four years of his career developing advisor relationships across the employee benefits industry in Western Canada and the United States with a focus in preventative mental health and critical illness. Since joining Allstate Benefits in 2023, Jordan has emerged as a key partner and subject matter expert in delivering tailored critical illness solutions for small, medium, and enterprise groups.  

Paul Johnson, Regional Sales Director, National Accounts

Based in Vancouver, Paul has over eight years of experience in the group benefits market, specializing in providing robust and sustainable solutions. His passion for supporting advisor partners has been instrumental in helping them navigate the complexities of employee benefits with confidence and :success.

Session 2: Chronic Disease in the Workplace

Recent studies indicate that nearly 50% of the Canadian population is affected by at least one significant chronic condition. Contrary to common perception, chronic diseases are no longer exclusive to individuals in their fifth and sixth decades of life. An increasing number of employees in their thirties and forties, and occasionally younger, are managing one or more chronic conditions. This demographic shift presents substantial challenges for employers in the administration of employee benefit plans.

This session will examine current research findings and their implications for the Canadian workforce and organizational environments. We will analyze the growing impact of chronic diseases on both employees and employers, with a focus on proactive prevention measures that companies can implement. Additionally, we will explore strategies to provide comprehensive support for employees managing chronic conditions, thereby fostering a healthier, more productive work environment.

Our Presenter: 

Sylvana Leclerc -  Consultant, Organizational Health, Sun Life Sylvana is a seasoned Organizational Health Consultant dedicated to creating workplaces where everyone feels valued and engaged. She focuses on helping leaders foster environments of trust and psychological safety. Sylvana's approach emphasizes organizational health, looking beyond individual well-being to examine the values, practices, policies, and programming that shape workplace culture. She works closely with clients to develop tailored strategies that improve employee satisfaction and productivity, ultimately enhancing the overall client experience. Prior to joining Sunlife in 2017, Sylvana worked as a consultant specializing in absence, disability, and health management at a global advisory firm. She also spent 15 years overseeing benefits and wellness programs for a large transportation organization in Canada. During this time, she led the development of innovative wellness initiatives that earned the organization multiple awards. When not working, Sylvana spends most of her time enjoying the outdoors.