(For more FAQ's related to COVID, please visit Michigan Tech's page at mtu.edu/flex)
General
1
Who are the individuals in the at-risk category for COVID-19?
As defined by the Centers for Disease Control, at-risk individuals are older people or people with a serious chronic medical condition such as heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes.
Verified October 12, 2020
Employee / Work Guidance
1
I am an employee who is in the at-risk population and am practicing self-isolation to avoid contact with others. Am I excused from my Michigan Tech work obligations?
Please contact your supervisor and continue to work remotely if possible.
Updated October 12, 2020
2
I am an employee who may have been exposed to COVID-19 and am subject to the CDC's 14-day quarantine period. What are my options?
Employees adhering to the CDC's 14-day isolation period must contact their immediate supervisor to discuss options.
Updated October 12, 2020
3
If I choose to stay home by my own choice and not work remotely, can I use vacation? How long am I able to exercise this option?
Vacation requests will be handled by your supervisor on a case-by-case basis following the normal procedures for requesting time off from work.
Verified October 12, 2020
4
Are there ways I can maintain my productivity and well-being while working from home?
From establishing a dedicated workspace to taking regular breaks, we've got proven strategies to help faculty and staff.
Verified October 12, 2020
5
If I can't work remotely but live with someone who is in the CDC-defined at-risk population and I fear exposing them to COVID-19, what are my options?
Contact your immediate supervisor to discuss options.
Updated October 12, 2020
Paid Sick Leave and Expanded Family and Medical Leave—Under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act
Additional information and FAQs about the Families First Coronavirus Response Act are available.
Payroll, Health / Paid Time Off Benefits
1
How does the Families First Coronavirus Response Act affect my paid sick leave and family and medical leave options?
You can learn more in the Family Rights announcement we've shared that was issued by the United States Department of Labor.
Verified October 12, 2020
2
Can employees use sick time or other paid time off to care for a family member who has COVID-19?
Yes, you will can use any paid time off that you may have (including sick, personal, annual leave, PTO, or vacation).
Updated October 12, 2020
3
I am not able to work remotely, will I be required to use my sick and/or vacation time?
Yes, you will have to use any paid time off that you may have (including sick, personal, annual leave, PTO, or vacation).
Updated October 12, 2020
4
If I'm sick, will Michigan Tech require a doctor's note?
During this time, we ask supervisors to remain flexible and not require a doctor's note.
Verified October 12, 2020
5
Will short-term disability kick in for those who are self-isolating or fall under the CDC's 14-day isolation guidelines?
Michigan Tech's short-term disability will follow normal procedures and plans. Unum has indicated Michigan Tech's plan does not have a self- or CDC-mandated isolation provision. Employees in these situations will be allowed to use sick leave time.
Verified October 12, 2020
6
Will Michigan Tech's health care plan cover expenses related to treatment of COVID-19?
Michigan Tech's plan will cover 100 percent of testing costs for the COVID-19 virus. Additionally, Michigan Tech's health care plan with BCBSM will be reimbursing members that have cost share applied for dates of service between July 1, 2020 – December 31, 2020. Members will receive a pre-EOB letter, as well as a letter with a check, if cost share has been applied for COVID treatment. The IRS has approved payment of medical expenses by high deductible health plans for COVID-19 testing and treatment without regard to satisfaction of the HDHP deductible. This means treatment costs will be covered or reimbursed at 100 percent and no co-payments will be required.
Verified October 12, 2020
7
If the University closes, will employees that do not have to report to work be paid?
Michigan Tech will follow the University Closure Policy.
Verified October 12, 2020
Students and Temporary Employees
1
Will the COVID-19 test be covered by Wellfleet insurance?
Wellfleet will cover student member costs for COVID-19 testing. Wellfleet will waive all co-pays, deductibles, and co-insurance. Similar to a preventive visit, like an annual physical, the member will have no out-of-pocket costs for testing.
Verified October 12, 2020
Temporary Employees
1
How do temporary employees accrue sick leave, and how do I check my sick leave balance?
Temporary employees, excluding student employees, receive .029 hours of sick leave per one hour of work reported. You can check your sick leave balance on Banweb under the Leave Balances tab.
Verified October 12, 2020
2
How do temporary employees use sick leave?
Use of sick leave needs to be approved by your supervisor. When you complete your timesheet, you'll enter the sick leave code.
Verified October 12, 2020