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Employee Assistance Program
The City of Iowa City sponsors an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) as a means of assisting
all permanent employees, and their families, in resolving any problems that may affect personal
well-being, and, potentially, job performance. These problems may include marital or family
difficulties, financial or legal concerns, emotional conflicts, or problems caused by alcohol or other
substance abuse.
The program, administered by Synchrony (351-9072), 438 Southgate Ave., Iowa City, is a
place employees can turn to when they, or their family members, feel they may need guidance or
assistance in solving personal problems. It is entirely confidential and in no way meant to interfere
with an employee's private life.
Employees and their families are encouraged to voluntarily seek assistance for a problem as soon
as possible. This involves calling the program coordinator at 351-9072 to schedule an
appointment. You may be seen at the EAP for up to six visits at no cost. However, if a referral is
made to another community resource, you will be responsible for costs incurred. The EAP
counselor will recommend referral options and your health insurance may cover some of the
costs, depending upon the nature of the problem and the referral agency. If you have questions
about your health insurance coverage, you are encouraged to discuss this with the counselor.
EAP Referrals
Voluntary - A voluntary, self-referral to the program is the preferred method. You, or a family
member, upon recognition of a problem, simply phone the EAP to schedule an appointment for an
initial interview.
Informal - An informal referral is a suggestion from either a supervisor, co-worker or family
member, to go to the EAP for assistance. This type of referral is generally made prior to any
serious decline in job performance, but at a stage where concerned persons have noticed a
change in an individual's personality, attitude or overall health.
The City will not be made aware of your visit if it is made voluntarily prior to the problem becoming
a job performance issue.
Formal Referral - A formal referral is initiated by a supervisor and may be accompanied by
disciplinary action or imposed as a condition of continued City employment. This type of referral
is made at a point where job performance has declined to a critical level and corrective measures
have been unsuccessful in resolving the situation.
An individual who is formally referred to the EAP will be asked to sign a release of information
form. Information provided to the City is limited to information regarding attendance and
level of involvement.