What types of businesses or practitioners does Bent Ericksen & Associates work with?
Bent Ericksen & Associates works primarily with healthcare practices throughout the United States, most notably Dentists and Veterinarians, along with Chiropractors and Physicians. The profession specific policy manuals and resource materials are tailored for any small, private sector business, i.e. ones which can’t justify or afford having a dedicated Human Resources department, yet still must meet compliance requirements and stay current with the myriad of compliance regulations.

Are your policy manuals and resource materials compliant in all states?
Yes. Bent Ericksen & Associates makes every effort it can to ensure that its materials are compliant in all states.

How does Bent Ericksen & Associates stay current with employment compliance rules and regulations?
On an ongoing basis, the company invests significant amounts of time and effort researching both federal and individual state regulations and requirements to keep the company’s products current and up-to-date. Based on required changes, the company provides updates to clients to ensure that materials are as current as possible.

How frequently are materials updated?
Typically updates are provided every 12-18 months. Updates consist of compliance mandated changes, as well as business environment and effective staff management changes. Additionally, the company publishes its quarterly “BOP Newsletter” that keeps clients informed of pending and recent legislation changes.

Are there "hidden" or "add-on charges" for forms or manuals like I see with other consultants?
Absolutely not! When you place an order for the HR Director or Personnel Program package you receive all the materials, support and services. The essential recommended forms, and HR materials are included with the cost of the package. We don't believe in hidden charges or fees for each additional form or manual you need to get the job done.

How available is someone to help me with my problems?
The company’s professional staff includes technical consultants and analysts available to provide assistance and support from 9am to 5pm PST, Monday through Friday. Appointments for telephone consultations are most often scheduled, in advance, at a convenient time for the client. Clients on annual support agreements and those with scheduled appointments are given response priority. Other calls are taken on a first-come, first-serve basis depending upon staff availability.

What types of support services does the company provide?
Support services are available for clients only, not personnel, unless explicit permission has been given. The company offers three types of annual support agreements which includes support time, product updates, and the “BOP Newsletter”. The three support options are "The Comprehensive", "The Basic" and "The Limited". The annual support agreement is the easiest way to budget support costs and represents the most economical and cost effective way of receiving support. Alternatively, time and materials support is available at $75 per call for the first 10 minutes plus $5 per additional minute, plus individual update costs that will vary depending upon the extent of the manuals that need updating. For complete details about your annual support options, select the “Support and Update” link on our web site.

Do you provide legal advice?
As a consulting firm, Bent Ericksen & Associates does not provide legal advice. Every effort is made to insure that the information, options, and/or recommendations meet federal and individual state guidelines. Additionally, the company utilizes the resources of its own legal firm for review and accuracy of HR materials and representations. If legal representation is required, Bent Ericksen & Associates works hand-in-hand, as needed, with the client’s representing attorney.

Once I place my order, how long will it take for me to receive my materials?
Orders are typically shipped via Federal Express ground service. As a result, most orders are received within 10-14 days of placing the order. If necessary, expedited shipping is available. Contact Bent Ericksen & Associates for additional costs for expedited shipping.

What is involved with implementing the HR Director?
Facilitated by a Bent Ericksen & Associates certified consultant, the typical implementation has two parts. The first is the personalization process of the Personnel Policy Manual and related materials. The end result is a manual and/or job descriptions unique to your business, office or practice. The second part involves your staff and includes the implementation of the new/revised manual, complete with acknowledgement forms and completed personnel files. As needed, customized implementation services are also available.

After I receive my materials how long does it take to have everything implemented?
Working with a Bent Ericksen & Associates certified consultant, your implementation can proceed very quickly and smoothly. Part one typically takes 2-3 hours of consultation time to personalize your benefits. This is often accomplished via phone consultations(s) at your convenience. Our certified consultant then assists with the completion of your individualized benefits section of your policy manual. Part two is the staff implementation component which takes approximately 1 hour. Both components are scheduled and facilitated at your convenience.

Can I receive CE credit for attending a presentation?
Yes! We are an approved provider of continuing education credits from the Academy of General Dentistry.

How do I schedule a presentation at my study club?
Contact Bent Ericksen & Associates via telephone at 800/679-2760 or via the “Contact Information” link on the web site to make arrangements for a presentation to study clubs, associations, societies, or other member or client-based meeting.