Becoming a parent is a life-changing experience—and the adventure begins during pregnancy. This period of transformation raises many questions, not only for expectant parents, but for employers as well. Investing in support for pregnant women and new mothers builds an inclusive and sustainable organizational culture, while fostering staff retention and strengthening commitment. Legal obligations related to safety and modified job duties must of course be taken care of, but can we go beyond that? This article provides:
- ideas and tips for managers and human resources professionals;
- a unique resource available to AGA plan members–support from Prenato–which can enhance an employer’s positive image.
Support, inform, refer
For managers, an approach based on listening, flexibility and recognition of the specific needs that come with pregnancy is essential. Simple gestures, such as showing understanding when medical appointments are required or being open to workplace accommodation needs, have a significant impact on the wellbeing of employees and their life partners.
For human resources, it’s important to know about–and promote–external and internal programs supporting parenting. A basic comprehension of the provisions of government benefits, such as Employment Insurance (EI) and the Québec Parental Insurance Plan (QPIP), can be reassuring in answering expectant parents’ questions and referring them to the appropriate resource. Policies governing flexible hours and telework must be properly communicated. Lastly, group insurance plans sometimes cover pregnancy-related expenses or tests, and HR departments need to be aware of these.
Against this backdrop, the employee benefits sector is becoming increasingly open to partnerships aimed at expanding the usual group benefits frameworks, giving employers additional tools that help them stand out from the crowd. In point of fact, AGA plan members enjoy preferred access to Prenato, a recognized perinatal services provider, thanks to AGA’s Exclusive Benefits for Members program.
Prenato, taking family’s needs to heart
Prenato stands out for its personalized approach and its expertise in medical genetics in two areas: screening and information. The clinic offers accurate, comprehensive and risk-free prenatal screening tests for mothers and babies in a safe and caring environment. Prenato boasts cutting-edge medical expertise in genetic and perinatal testing, a human-centred and personalized approach focused on the needs of families, and swift, confidential access to specialized services.
Prenato also offers a rich online perinatal support platform administered by experienced perinatal nurses, in conjunction with a network of affiliated professionals (obstetricians, geneticists, social workers, nutritionists, birth companions, etc.). Online support provides answers to questions about conception, prepares expectant parents for the various events of pregnancy, childbirth and the arrival of the baby, and can refer pregnant women to an appropriate medical service.
What perks are available through AGA?
AGA plan members have access to perks and preferred pricing on Prenato services:
- Free access to the online perinatal support platform for a 3-month period;
- A discount on prenatal screening tests performed at Prenato or one of its partner clinics;
- A discount on Prenato’s online prenatal courses.
For more details, to obtain free access to the support platform and enjoy other discounts, plan members must access the AGA Exclusive Benefits for Members tile in the Members Portal. There aren’t any associated costs for employers if employees opt to take advantage of these services.
- If you’re an AGA plan member, visit your Members Portal to find out more and take action now.
- If you’re an administrator of an AGA plan, contact your AGA advisor to discuss how you can promote Exclusive Benefits for Members in your company.
- If you’re a company looking to offer innovative benefits to support your employees and your organization’s success, please contact us.
More about Prenato
An innovative private clinic, Prenato harnesses the latest advances in genetics and specialized medicine. Prenato offers accurate, comprehensive prenatal screening tests during pregnancy at no risk to mothers and their babies. Patients are served in a welcoming environment personalized to their needs.
Prenato is a division of Genoscience Diagnostic®, a business devoted to the application of the most recent technological advances in clinical genetics and specialized medicine, and to their direct clinical applications for the benefit and the well-being of pregnant women. (Click here to learn more: Why choose Prenato?)
More details about the AGA Exclusive Benefits for Members program
The AGA Exclusive Benefits for Members program, which was launched in late 2024, enables plan administrators to offer their members discounts on products and services related to overall health, which includes physical, mental, and financial health. These discounts are exclusive for AGA plan members, which is an attractive added value for employers who want to stand out without any financial repercussions for the company. Plan members have access to a range of service providers who are pre-selected by AGA to offer services that complement their group benefits, are designed to meet the specific needs of each individual and are available à la carte.
