Search
Policy Areas

Medical Insurance: UN Worldwide Medical Insurance Plan

1

Step

Flowchart

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

2

Step

Enrollment of staff: 

Application/Request for Change Form completed and submitted together with supporting documents in respect of staff member’s participation, including his/her eligible family members, where relevant

Responsible Party

Staff member

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

Staff members who have no insurance coverage under a United Nations plan or through a family member must be strongly urged to obtain medical insurance coverage for themselves and their eligible family members, as the cost of medical care can result in financial hardship for individuals who fall ill and/or injured and have no coverage 

If a staff member or eligible family members is/are not enrolled within 31 days after an event that gives rise to an entitlement for coverage, an application for coverage may be submitted during the annual enrolment campaign. See  https://www.un.org/insurance/content/un-wwp for more information
In the case of a staff member married to another staff member, the insurance coverage, whether at the two-person or family level, must be carried by the higher salaried staff member 

Education of staff about the provisions under the insurance plan and distribution of materials by the person most familiar with the scheme is absolutely necessary 

If an office administers personnel on behalf of another agency, the same rules procedures for UNDP staff must be followed

3

Step

Enrollment of staff: 

The completed application for enrollment form is certified and submitted to the Insurance and Disbursement Services within 31 days of eligibility for the entitlement

Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

Entitlements Services Unit  in BES/GSSC in Copenhagen 

The UN Health and Insurance Unit administers the workflow of enrolment and reporting directly with the insurance carrier on behalf of UNDP.

4

Step

Enrollment of staff: 

Staff member records in Quantum are validated, contributions are computed, and coverage is activated

Responsible Party

UN Health and Life Insurance Unit

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

5

Step

Managing eligibility data in Quantum: 

Data on enrollment form is verified and validated and any change in coverage is processed into Quantum promptly

Responsible Party

,

UN Health and Life Insurance Unit

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

6

Step

Issue ID card: 

Electronic ID cards are available in the staff member’s personal web page. If requested
Identity cards are issued to the staff member and eligible dependent(s)

Responsible Party

Staff member,

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

It is the responsibility of the staff member to ensure the correct mailing address is submitted. Incomplete or incorrect mailing addresses in Quantum will result in misdirected mail or failure to receive important information.

7

Step

Claims: 

Insurance claims are submitted through Online Claiming tool or, in a sealed envelope together with supporting documents, on a claim form directly to the insurance carrier, following the instructions on the claim form

Responsible Party

Staff member

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

Subscribers should note that claims for reimbursement must be submitted to the insurance carrier no later than two years from the date on which the medical expense was incurred. Claims received later than one years after the date on which the expense was incurred will not be eligible for reimbursement.

The administration and management of the health insurance plans for internationally recruited staff governed by the UN Staff Regulations and Staff Rules are administered by the UN Health and Life Insurance Unit. Any questions/queries on the provisions under the plan or any disputes regarding claims must be submitted directly to this unit, located at 304 East 45th Street, 3rd Floor; or by email: hlis@un.org.

8

Step

Verification and reimbursement of claims: 

Insurance carrier reimburses staff member directly

Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

Payment is made to the insured person, but, if the subscriber is no longer alive, payment will be made to his/her beneficiary as per P-2 Form Designation of Beneficiaries

9

Step

Request a review if a claim is denied: 

A claim denied in whole or in part must be submitted to the insurance carrier. The insurance carrier will provide the subscriber with a written notice explaining the reason for the denial and the appeal procedure.

Responsible Party

Staff member,

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

The request for review must be submitted in writing within 60 days of receipt of the notice. The subscriber should include the reasons for requesting the review and submit the request to the insurance carrier. The insurance carrier will review the claim and ordinarily notify the subscriber of its final decision within 60 days of receipt of the request. If special circumstances require an extension of time, notification will be given to that effect.

Certified Sick Leave – CSL (more than 20 working days taken cumulatively or consecutively during a 12-month cycle period)

1

Step
Inform supervisor as soon as possible of absence due to injury or illness.
Responsible Party

Staff member

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
Staff member must inform the office immediately that he/she will be absent from the office due to illness or injury.

Staff member must consult his/her treating physician to obtain the required certification for sick leave.

All staff members are expected to familiarize themselves with the sick leave policy and other relevant leave entitlements, and are responsible for providing copies of the required specific documents for attendance recording purposes.

2

Step
Submit certified sick leave (CSL) to the UN Medical Services Division (UN MSD).
Responsible Party

Staff member

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
Verify sick leave balance prior to submitting request.

Initiate a leave request in Quantum self-service

Select the appropriate leave type in Quantum self-service as “Sick leave/Certified sick leave.”

For any absence of more than 20 cumulative or consecutive days during a 12-month period, staff member must submit a MS.24 form with the medical report/certificate to the UN Medical Services Division (DHMOSH) via email: sickleave@un.org

Record certified sick leave in Quantum no later than 20 calendar days following the 1st day of the sick leave.

If unable to send MS.24 and the medical certificate/report to DHMOSH, due to health condition, the staff member’s HR focal pointto support the staff member in this process, and make a pre-notification to DHMOSH, for such a delay.

3

Step
Secure DHMOSH confirmation on certification of the sick leave.
Responsible Party

Staff member,

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
Staff member must follow up with the DHMOSH on receipt of the certification of the sick leave.
If staff member is unable to follow up with DHMOSH due to health condition, the HR focal point must support the staff member by facilitating contact with DHMOSH.


4

Step
Upload approved DHMOSH sick leave certification for the indicated period in Quantum self-service.
Responsible Party

Staff member

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
Approval of the sick leave for the indicated period is uploaded in Quantum self-service.

If staff member is unable to upload the document, leave monitor will ensure that MSD approval is uploaded in Quantum self-service.

5

Step
Approve certified sick leave in Quantum self-service
Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
The request is approved in Quantum by the supervisor who must ensure that the uploaded certification is in accordance with the absence request.

6

Step
Ensure that leave is appropriately recorded in Quantum self-service 
Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
If leave is not recorded in Quantum self-service, supervisor/leave monitor must request the staff member to submit sick leave in Quantum within the 1st day upon receipt of the certification from DHMOSH.

7

Step
Contact HR focal point for next steps if sick leave is exhausted, as appropriate.
Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
Supervisor must inform the staff member’s HR focal point and the staff member when the sick leave entitlement is close to exhaustion

8

Step
Contact GPS and OHR, specifically the respective OHR Business Partner
Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
HR focal point in the CO to contact respective OHR Business partner in HQ when the staff member exhausts Sick Leave with Full Pay entitlement in order to request extended sick leave audit and further guidance on sick leave procedure. HR focal point must ensure that sick leave is duly certified by  DHMOSH and provide copies of attendance record cards for the last four years, as applicable, and copies of sick leave certifications by DHMOSH

9

Step
Advise CO on the next steps in the process.
Responsible Party

HR Business Partner

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
Based on the specific case, OHR will provide advice and guidance on the next steps, including the submission process for Disability benefit cases.

Medical Evacuation Travel (MET)

1

Step

Flowchart – Medical Evacuation Travel (MET) Process

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

2

Step

Request approval for MET to Head of Office and advise HR Administrator 

Responsible Party

Staff member

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

Request for MET must be accompanied by a medical report from the attending physician that justifies medical necessity.

3

Step

Verify eligibility of patient for MET

Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

International and national staff members with an appointment governed by the UN Staff Regulations and Staff Rules.

4

Step

Consult with UN Examining Physician/UN Dispensary Physician on the need for MET

Responsible Party

Head of Office

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

Head of Office (RR/Officer-in-Charge) 

MET should be approved on the recommendation of the local Medical Officer of the Regional Commission/UN Examining Physician/UN Dispensary Physician.

5

Step

Evaluate and recommend MET

Responsible Party

Physician

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

The local Medical Officer of the Regional Commission or 
the UN Dispensary Physician or 
local UN Examining Physician 
Guidelines for physicians on MET should be followed (Annex C); the recommendation for MET should be forwarded to the Head of Office for approval.

6

Step

Approve MET to a recognized regional medical centre within the region

Responsible Party

Head of Office

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

If MET is not authorized, the HR Administrator should inform the staff member. 

MET to any other place will require the prior approval of the UN Medical Director.

7

Step

Evaluate request for MET outside the region and approve MET to any other place other than the recognized medical centre within the region

Responsible Party

UN Medical Director

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

The Head of Office should forward a request to the UN Medical Director with the following information: 
- staff member’s name, agency, duty station and index number; 
- indication of whether the patient is the staff member or an eligible family member; if eligible family member, relationship to staff member; 
- proposed place and date of evacuation; 
- patient’s current clinical condition; 
- tentative diagnosis by the treating physician; 
- laboratory test; 
- treatment initiated; 
- specific purpose of the evacuation; and 
- recommendation of the local Medical Officer of the Regional Commission, the UN Dispensary Physician or the local UN Examining Physician. 

It is essential that correct and complete information be communicated to the UN Medical Director to avoid unnecessary delays. Each request for MET will be reviewed individually, taking into consideration the recommendation of the Medical Officer of the Regional Economic Commission, the UN Dispensary Physician or the local UN Examining Physician, and any other medical information at hand. 

If MET is not authorized outside the region, the RR would be advised to inform the staff member.

8

Step

Arrange MET: 
- Communicate approval to staff 
- Inform Cigna or GMCS of MET 
- If patient is unable to, forward completed and signed Cost Estimate form to Medical Insurance on behalf of patient 
- Organize MET of the patient and accompanying escort, if applicable 
- Organize purchase of tickets, confirmation of flights and DSA 
- Process salary advance for the staff member, if requested 
- Ensure that any required entry visas are obtained 
- Forward itinerary and MET approval to Finance for payment of DSA and terminal expenses 
- If the MET destination is in security level I or above, request security clearance for the patient and/or family member/ medical escort 
- Forward the travel details to the HR Administrator of the receiving office and request logistical arrangements for the patient: hospital appointment, hotel accommodation and transportation

Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

In non-emergency cases, appointments with the hospital should be confirmed before the staff member or dependent leaves on MET; Cost estimate forms should be completed at least 10 days before hospitalization or no later than three days after hospitalization in cases of emergency 

All logistical arrangements should be put in place before departure and confirmed with the receiving UNDP office at the place of MET 

The following information should be forwarded to the receiving office: 
- patient’s name, date of birth and relationship to the staff member; 
- if applicable, name of accompanying family member and/or medical escort; 
- date of arrival, name of airline, flight number and estimated time of arrival for patient and, if applicable, accompanying family member and/or medical escort; 
- estimated date of departure, name of airline, flight number and estimated time of departure for patient and, if applicable, accompanying family member and/or medical escort; 
- whether hotel accommodation arrangements are required for the patient and, if applicable, accompanying family member and/or medical escort; 
- whether transportation arrangements to and from the airport are required for the patient and, if applicable, accompanying family member and/or medical escort; and 
- whether patient is covered under Cigna, MIP or any of the New York Insurance Plans.

If the staff member is unable to complete and/or sign the form, the staff member’s spouse or an adult family member may complete and sign the form on his/her behalf. If attempts to contact the staff member’s spouse or an adult family member have failed, the UNDP RR, Country Director or OIC may sign on the staff member’s behalf. This measure should only be taken under circumstances where there is supporting documentation to show that efforts to contact the staff member’s spouse or adult family member were unsuccessful and where further delay could jeopardize the staff member’s well-being. When using this measure, the UNDP decision maker is responsible for communicating all medical information to the staff member until such time as a spouse or adult family member is contacted.

9

Step

Approve the application for hospitalization and direct billing;
Forward Letter of Guarantee to the hospital/clinic

Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

Insurance Company Cigna, MIP or any of the New York Insurance Plans

For local staff covered under MIP, please refer to MIP Rules

For international staff covered under UN WWP (Cigna), please refer to UN  Worldwide Medical Insurance Plan.

10

Step

Take MET

Responsible Party

Staff member,

Dependent

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

For local staff covered under MIP, please refer to MIP Rules.

For international staff covered under the UN WWP (Cigna),, please refer to UN  Worldwide Medical Insurance Plan

11

Step

For a patient covered under MIP, sign and forward the GMC Prior Agreement form completed by the doctor to GMC.

Responsible Party

Staff member,

Dependent

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

For local staff covered under MIP, please refer to MIP Rules

For international staff covered under Vanbreda, please refer to UN  Worldwide Medical Insurance Plan.

12

Step

Request completion of ‘Medical Evacuation’ form (MS.39) by the attending physician at the place of evacuation, together with a complete medical report to the Medical Service through the attending physician at the staff member’s duty station within two weeks of the evacuee’s return to the duty station

Responsible Party

Staff member,

Dependent

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

13

Step

Forward the ‘Medical Evacuation’ form (MS.39) and the medical report from the attending physician to the UN Medical Director when the staff member returns from MET

Responsible Party

Physician

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

The local Medical Officer of the Regional Commission or 
the UN Dispensary Physician or 
local UN Examining Physician

A complete medical report delivered by the attending physician at the place of evacuation should be forwarded to the Medical Service within two weeks of the evacuee’s return to the duty station. 

The record will include all supporting documentation that may have been submitted to justify a request for MET in excess of 45 days.

14

Step

Maintain a complete record of the MET;
Forward the data on MET to the UN Medical Director each quarter

Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

A written record must be kept by the local HR/Operations Manager of each MET, setting out the following information (which should be forwarded to UNMS):
- the name of the staff member, index number, name of the organization, whether locally or internationally recruited; 
​ - the name of the dependant and his/her relation to the staff member, if the evacuee was not the staff member; 
- the name of the Head of Office who authorized the evacuation; 
- the place of evacuation authorized by the Head of Office; 
- the actual place of evacuation; 
- the total cost of the MET, including travel expenses and DSA; and 
- the total medical costs during MET.

15

Step

Repatriation of mortal remains

Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

The funding source for the authorized expenses related to the preparation and transportation of mortal remains is the same funding source against which the staff member’s salary is charged. Please be guided by Annex D

All expenses related to the staff member’s medical treatment are charged to MIP in accordance with the rules. 

Expenses related to the MET (e.g. staff member’s air ticket, nurse’s air ticket, DSA, ambulances etc.) are charged to the same funding source against which the staff member’s salary is charged.

Medical insurance: UN NY Empire Blue Cross PPO Medical Insurance

1

Step

Flowchart - Medical insurance: UN NY Empire Blue Cross PPO Medical Insurance

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline

Flowchart - Medical insurance: UN NY Empire Blue Cross PPO Medical Insurance

HR_Insurance Plans_Empire Blue Cross PPO Flowchart

Explanatory Notes

2

Step

Enrollment of staff: 

Application/ Request for Change Form completed and submitted together with supporting documents in respect of staff member’s participation, including his/her eligible family members, where relevant

Responsible Party

Staff member

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

Staff members who have no insurance coverage under a United Nations plan or through a family member must be strongly urged to obtain medical insurance coverage for themselves and their eligible family members, as the cost of medical care can result in financial hardship for individuals who fall ill and/or injured and have no coverage 

If staff member or eligible family members are not enrolled within 31 days after an event that gives rise to an entitlement for coverage, an application for coverage may be submitted during the annual enrollment campaign. See UN ST/IC/2014/15 

In the case of a staff member married to another staff member, the insurance coverage, whether at the two-person or family level, must be carried by the higher salaried staff member 

Education of staff about the provisions under the insurance plan and distribution of materials by the person most familiar with the scheme is absolutely necessary 

If an office administers personnel on behalf of another agency, the same rules procedures for UNDP staff must be followed.

3

Step

Enrollment of staff: 

The completed application for enrollment form is certified and submitted to the Insurance and Disbursement Services within 31 days of eligibility for the entitlement

Responsible Party

BES/GSSC

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

The administration of this category of employees is centralized in the Benefits & Entitlements Services Unit in GSSC BES in Copenhagen

The UN Health and Insurance Unit administers the workflow of enrollment and reporting directly with the Insurance Carrier on behalf of UNDP

4

Step

Enrollment of staff: 

Staff member records in Quantum are validated, contributions are computed, and coverage is activated

Responsible Party

UN Insurance Unit

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

5

Step

Managing eligibility data in Quantum

Data on enrollment form is verified and validated and any change in coverage is processed into Quantum promptly

Responsible Party

UN Insurance Unit

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

6

Step

Issue ID card: 

Identity cards are issued to the staff member and eligible dependent(s)

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

It is the responsibility of the staff member to ensure that the correct mailing address is submitted. Incomplete or incorrect mailing addresses in Quantum will result in misdirected mail or failure to receive important information.

7

Step

Claims:

Insurance claims are submitted, in a sealed envelope together with supporting documents, on a claim form directly to the insurance carrier, following the instructions on the claim form.

Responsible Party

Staff member

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

Subscribers should note that claims for reimbursement must be submitted to the insurance carrier no later than two years from the date on which the medical expense was incurred. Claims received later than two years after the date on which the expense was incurred will not be eligible for reimbursement. 

The administration and management of the health insurance plans for internationally recruited staff governed by the UN Staff Regulations and Staff Rules are administered by the UN Health and Life Insurance Unit. Any questions/queries on the provisions under the plan or any disputes regarding claims must be submitted directly to this unit, located at 304 East 45th Street, 3rd Floor.

8

Step

Verification and reimbursement of claims: 

Insurance carrier reimburses staff member directly

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

Payment is made to the insured person, but, if the subscriber is no longer alive, payment will be made to his/her beneficiary as per P-2 Form Designation of Beneficiaries

9

Step

Request a review if a claim is denied: 

A claim denied in whole or in part must be submitted to the insurance carrier. The insurance carrier will provide the subscriber with a written notice explaining the reason for the denial and the appeal procedure

Responsible Party

Staff member

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

The request for review must be submitted in writing within 60 days of receipt of the notice. The subscriber should include the reasons for requesting the review and submit the request to the insurance carrier. The insurance carrier will review the claim and ordinarily notify the subscriber of its final decision within 60 days of receipt of the request. If special circumstances require an extension of time, notification will be given to that effect.

Dental Insurance: UN NY Cigna Dental Plan

1

Step
Flowchart
Responsible Party

OHR Copenhagen

Template/Guideline
Flowchart - Dental Insurance: UN NY Cigna Dental Plan

HR_Insurance Plans_Cigna Dental Insurance Flowchart

Explanatory Notes

2

Step
Enrollment of staff:

Application/Request for Change Form completed and submitted together with supporting documents in respect of staff member’s participation, including his/her eligible family members, where relevant
Responsible Party

Staff member

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
Staff members who have no insurance coverage under a United Nations plan or through a family member must be strongly urged to obtain medical insurance coverage for themselves and their eligible family members, as the cost of medical care can result in financial hardship for individuals who fall ill and/or injured and have no coverage

If staff member or eligible family members are not enrolled within 31 days after an event that gives rise to an entitlement for coverage, an application for coverage may be submitted during the annual enrollment campaign. See: https://www.un.org/insurance/. 

In the case of a staff member married to another staff member, the insurance coverage, whether at the two-person or family level, must be carried by the higher salaried staff member

Education of staff about the provisions under the insurance plan and distribution of materials by the person most familiar with the scheme is absolutely necessary

If an office administers personnel on behalf of another agency, the same rules procedures for UNDP staff must be followed.

3

Step
Enrollment of staff:

The completed application for enrollment form is certified and submitted to Insurance and Disbursement Services within 31 days of eligibility for the entitlement
Responsible Party

OHR Copenhagen,

BES-GSSC

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
The administration of this category of employees is centralized in the Benefits & Entitlements Services Unit in BES-GSSC in Copenhagen

The UN Health and Insurance Unit administers the workflow of enrollment and reporting directly with the insurance carrier on behalf of UNDP

4

Step
Enrollment of staff:

Staff member records in ATLAS are validated, contributions are computed and coverage is activated
Responsible Party

UN Health and Life Insurance Unit

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

5

Step
Managing eligibility data in ATLAS:

Data on enrollment form is verified and validated and any change in coverage is processed into ATLAS promptly
Responsible Party

,

UN Insurance Unit

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

6

Step
Issue ID card:

Identity cards are issued to the staff member and eligible dependent(s)
Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
It is the responsibility of the staff member to ensure that the correct mailing address is submitted. Incomplete or incorrect mailing addresses in ATLAS will result in misdirected mail or failure to receive important Information

7

Step
Claims:

Insurance claims are submitted, in a sealed envelope together with supporting documents, on a claim form directly to the insurance carrier, following the instructions on the claim form
Responsible Party

Staff member

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
Subscribers should note that claims for reimbursement must be submitted to the insurance carrier no later than two years from the date on which the medical expense was incurred. Claims received later than two years after the date on which the expense was incurred will not be eligible for reimbursement

The administration and management of the health insurance plans for internationally recruited staff governed by the UN Staff Regulations and Staff Rules are administered by the UN Health and Life Insurance Unit. Any questions/queries on the provisions under the plan or any disputes regarding claims must be submitted directly to this unit, located at 304 East 45th Street, 3rd Floor or contact at: hlis@un.org. 

8

Step
Verification and reimbursement of claims:

Insurance carrier reimburses staff member directly
Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
Payment is made to the insured person, but, if the subscriber is no longer alive, payment will be made to his/her beneficiary as per P-2 Form Designation of Beneficiaries

9

Step
Request a review if a claim is denied:

A claim denied in whole or in part must be submitted to the insurance carrier. The insurance carrier will provide the subscriber with a written notice explaining the reason for the denial and the appeal procedure
Responsible Party

Staff member,

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
The request for review must be submitted in writing within 60 days of receipt of the notice. The subscriber should include the reasons for requesting the review and submit the request to the insurance carrier. The insurance carrier will review the claim and ordinarily notify the subscriber of its final decision within 60 days of receipt of the request. If special circumstances require an extension of time, notification will be given to that effect.

After-Service Health Insurance: ASHI UN

1

Step

Flowchart

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

2

Step

Enrollment: 

An Application for ASHI Form must be completed and submitted together with supporting documents in respect of staff member’s application for After-Service Health Insurance (ASHI) coverage, including his/her eligible family members, where relevant 

In cases in which eligibility for ASHI coverage accrues as a result of the death of a staff member, the surviving spouse and/or eligible dependent children must apply for ASHI coverage within the three months following the date of death of the staff member

Responsible Party

Staff member,

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

Administrative Instruction ST/AI/394 dated 9 May 1994 sets out the established policy in regard to the provision of the After-Service Health Insurance (ASHI) coverage under specified conditions 

Administrative instruction ST/AI/2007/3 dated 1 July 2007 sets out the change in conditions for eligibility and cost of participating in a UN ASHI plan for staff recruited on or after 1 July 2007 

Staff members who become eligible after an event that gives rise to an entitlement for coverage for ASHI must be informed of the procedures for enrollment. Education of staff about the provisions under the insurance plan and distribution of materials by the person most familiar with the scheme, are absolutely necessary. 

If an office administers personnel on behalf of another agency, the same rules and procedures for UNDP staff must be followed 

At the time of retirement, a staff member may switch from the insurance plan that he/she had on an in-service basis to a health insurance plan that is more appropriate following separation from service, under certain conditions. For example, a staff member who, while in active service, participated in a Headquarters health insurance plan, may switch to a non-United States-based plan if he/she will reside outside the United States following separation from service, provided that covered dependants will also reside outside the United States. 

After-Service Health Insurance participants who change their country of primary residence following separation may also transfer from one insurance plan to another if a different plan is more appropriate to the new country of residence. In such cases, the change in plan will become effective on the first day of the month following receipt of written notification regarding the change in country of residence or as soon thereafter as is practical. With respect to health insurance plans available to after-service participants who reside in the United States, transfer from one plan to another may be made subject to the condition that there must be two years' coverage under any such plan before a change can be made. . For more information, visit https://www.un.org/insurance
 

3

Step

Enrollment: 

Staff members separating from service at Headquarters may submit the relevant application forms directly to the Health and Life Insurance Section, Office of Programme Planning, Budget and Accounts, 304 East 45th Street, 3rd Floor, Room FF-300. 

Staff members at other duty stations who apply for ASHI coverage under a plan administered at Headquarters must submit the relevant application forms through their administrative office, not directly to the UN Health and Life Insurance Unit at Headquarters. 

Staff members separating from service at other duty stations who wish to apply for After-Service Health insurance coverage under a plan that is not administered at Headquarters should contact the local human resources office or the office administering their in-service health insurance coverage.

Responsible Party

OHR Copenhagen,

UN Health and Life Insurance Unit,

BES-GSSC

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

The administration of this category of employees is centralized in the Benefits & Entitlements Services Unit in BES-GSSC in Copenhagen
 

4

Step

Enrollment: 

Data on enrolment form is verified and validated and any change in coverage is processed into Quantum promptly.

Responsible Party

OHR Copenhagen,

BES-GSSC

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

It is the responsibility of the staff member to ensure the correct mailing address is submitted. Incomplete or incorrect mailing addresses in Quantum will result in misdirected mail or failure to receive important documentation.

5

Step

Enrollment: 

Staff member records in Quantum are validated, contributions are computed and coverage is activated.

Responsible Party

UN Health and Life Insurance Unit

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

The UN Health and Insurance Unit administers the workflow of enrolment and reporting directly with the Insurance Carrier on behalf of UNDP

6

Step

Payment of contributions to the cost of After-Service Health Insurance coverage: 

Staff member must include the authorization permitting UNJSPF to effect monthly deduction from the periodic pension benefit as an integral application component for after-service coverage

In the case of ASHI subscribers who:
- elect to defer pension payments or 
- receive monthly pension benefit payments that are insufficient to meet the cost of the participant’s monthly health insurance coverage; 
- or where automatic deductions from periodic pension payments payable from the UNJSPF or Appendix D are not available, payment of the requisite contribution must be made in advance of the period of coverage under the applicable health insurance plan on a quarterly, semi-annual, or annual basis. 

After-Service Health Insurance participants whose premium contributions are payable on the basis of an invoice, rather than through the automatic pension deduction mechanism, must remit full payment of the amount billed by the due date indicated on the invoice.

Responsible Party

Staff member

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

Subscribers covered under the ASHI will have their contributions deducted on a monthly basis from their periodic pension and/or Appendix D benefit. 

Contributions must be made in a currency acceptable to the Organization for the purposes of the insurance plan chosen. In the case of health insurance plans administered at Headquarters, the only currency acceptable is the United States dollar. 

Failure to remit the premium in full by the date indicated will result in suspension of insurance coverage, without further notice. Insurance coverage may be reinstated provided that the full required premium payment is remitted within three months of the date of suspension of coverage, along with payment for any subsequent period that may have become due. Failure to reinstate coverage by the latter date will result in termination of eligibility to participate in the ASHI programme.

7

Step

Claims: 

Insurance Claims are submitted on a claim form directly to the insurance carrier in a sealed envelope together with supporting documents, following the instructions on the claim form.

Responsible Party

Staff member

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

Subscribers should note that claims for reimbursement must be submitted to the insurance carrier no later than two years from the date on which the medical expense was incurred. Claims received later than two years after the date on which the expense was incurred will not be eligible for reimbursement. 

The administration and management of the health insurance plans for internationally recruited staff under the UN Staff Regulations and Staff Rules are administered by the UN Health and Life Insurance Unit. Any questions/ queries on the provisions under the plan or any disputes regarding claims must be submitted directly to this unit, located at 304 East 45th Street, 3rd Floor.

8

Step

Reimbursement of claims:

Insurance carrier reimburses staff member directly

Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

Payment is made to the insured person, but, if the subscriber is no longer alive, payment will be made to his/her beneficiary as per P-2 Form Designation of Beneficiaries

9

Step

Request a review if a claim is denied: 

A claim denied in whole or in part must be submitted to the insurance carrier. The insurance carrier will provide the subscriber a written notice explaining the reason for the denial and the appeal procedure.

Responsible Party

Staff member

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

The request for review must be submitted in writing within 60 days of receipt of the notice. The subscriber should include the reasons for requesting the review and submit the request to the claim office of the respective insurance carrier. The insurance carrier will review the claim and ordinarily notify the subscriber of its final decision within 60 days of receipt of the request. If special circumstances require an extension of time, notification will be given to that effect.

Time off for Breastfeeding

1

Step
Flowchart - ​Time off for Breastfeeding
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

2

Step
Initiate discussion with supervisor
Responsible Party

Staff member

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
The staff member should discuss the timing of breastfeeding with her supervisor and peers.

3

Step
Formal request for breastfeeding in writing to supervisor with copy to HR administrator
Responsible Party

Staff member

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
A copy of the request and supervisor’s approval should be kept in the staff member’s file.

4

Step
Approval
Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
The supervisor discusses suitable/flexible arrangements for breastfeeding with the staff member.

5

Step
Finalize breastfeeding arrangements
Responsible Party

Staff member

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
With an agreement in place, the staff member makes appropriate arrangements with the Operations Manager and the HR Administrator.

6

Step
Establish an appropriate area for breastfeeding
Responsible Party

Operations

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
Where and when practical and to the extent possible, offices are required to:
- provide a private area for mothers to express their milk or breastfeed their infants during the workday; and
- provide access to a refrigerator for storing the milk.

NOTE: Country Offices are required to make arrangements if and when the need arises.

Internship

1

Step

Create Terms of Reference (ToR)

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

2

Step

Advertise vacancy or source from a Roster

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
  • Must be advertised individually (or generically for rostering purposes) on the UNDP job-site(s); or 
  • Sourced from a Roster.

3

Step

Candidate assessment

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

Long-listed candidates should submit, in addition to application, cv and letter of motivation:

  • Letter from the candidate’s university confirming current enrolment and graduation date, if applicable;  
  • Copy of the candidate’s school transcript; 
  • Endorsement letter or letter of reference from a faculty member, if requested;
  • Prepare a shortlist.

4

Step

Check references and recommend candidate.

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

Reviews short-list of candidates and informs HR focal point of final decision.

5

Step

Confirm offer of internship, and provide offer letter/package

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
  • Confirms acceptance to internship and start/end dates;
  • Establish if intern is financially supported by any other institution or programme.
  • Confirms amount of stipend/remote stipend, if any, and insert in intern agreement letter;
  • Advise where and to whom to report
  • Include a copy of the ToR;
  • Advise that internship is subject to:
  • All forms must be completed/signed by intern prior to start of internship.
  • Register intern's details into Quantum.

6

Step

Orientation
 

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
  • Upon arrival, the intern should be given:
    • An overview of security and safety in the duty station and inserted in the security plan as necessary;
    • Briefing on conduct and responsibilities of UN personnel, and framework for reporting allegations of workplace and sexual harassment, abuse of authority and fraud or mismanagement of funds;
    • Access to all mandatory courses, which need to be completed within one month of entry on duty. Mandatory courses can be accessed here.
    • A copy of the Regulations Governing the Status, Basic Rights and Duties of Officials other than Secretariat Officials, and Experts on Mission (ST/SGB/2002/9);
    • Briefing on the project to which intern will be assigned, its objectives, structure and inputs, including his/her specific role and activities directly related to the ToR;
  • Discuss/review learning objectives of the internship.

7

Step

Training (if required)

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

Receiving office is responsible for the development of a relevant programme of learning for the intern for the duration of the internship.

8

Step

Stipend
 

Responsible Party

OHR Policy and Compensation Unit,

HR/Administrative Focal point

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
  • The internship stipends are currently under review by OHR. In the meantime, the stipend rates issued in 2023 continue to be applicable in 2024. The stipend is normally paid in the same currency as local payroll. 
  • Track any unjustified absences during the internship period exceeding a total of nine days, 
  • Full days where the intern does not report to the office, in excess of 9 days and does not provide sufficient justification, are deducted from the monthly stipend on a prorated basis.  
  • Ensure that the stipend/remote stipend is remitted to the intern on a monthly basis. 

9

Step

Evaluation

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
  • Performance discussions should be held at least once at the midpoint of internship.
  • At the end of the internship, the intern’s Supervisor shall prepare an internship evaluation and meet with the intern to discuss performance and provide feedback.
  • Provide UNDP certificate upon completion of internship.

After-Service Health Insurance: ASHI MIP

1

Step
Flowchart
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

2

Step
Application for ASHI:

Complete form and submit within 30 days of separation from service
Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
The education of staff about MIP ASHI and the distribution of materials are absolutely necessary

Refer to MIP 7.2 for eligibility conditions

If an office administers personnel on behalf of another agency for MIP purposes, the same rules and procedures for UNDP staff must be followed

3

Step
Application for ASHI in case of death of a former staff member:

Surviving spouse (if any) or the eldest eligible child completes the MIP Application/Request for Change Form and submits within 30 days of the death of the former staff member
Responsible Party

Surviving Spouse,

Dependent,

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
If an insured former staff member dies, the surviving spouse (if any) or the eldest eligible child becomes eligible to assume the role of the subscriber and to continue to pay contributions in accordance with the appropriate category of coverage

4

Step
Enrollment:

After validation of eligibility and approval of application, the applicant is notified
Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
When potential after-service participants elect not to enroll in the after-service coverage when they first become eligible, neither they nor their eligible family members will be permitted to enroll in MIP at a later date. If the potential after-service participant elects not to have after-service coverage, a signed note stating this decision must be put into the staff member’s file at the time of separation.

5

Step
Calculation of contributions:

ASHI contributions are calculated based on category of coverage as laid down in MIP Rule 7.4. and ASHI subscriber is informed of the amount of contribution and method of payment
Responsible Party

,

Finance Officer

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
Contact MIP_ASHI 

6

Step
Eligibility Data:

Reviews and validates eligibility data in the system and transmits file to claims administrative company
Responsible Party

MIP HR Technical Support

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
A technical interface uploads enrollment and eligibility data from Quantum and the claims administration company (TPA)

In addition to ensuring the correct calculation of ASHI contributions, the data entry process is also critical for reporting purposes and for timely and accurate payments of MIP reimbursement claims

A technical interface uploads enrollment and eligibility data from Quantum and the claims administration company (TPA)

7

Step
ID Cards:

Uploads eligibility data, updates ID cards and communicates exceptions, if any, to HR Technical Support
Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

8

Step
Managing eligibility data in Global Payroll:

Data on enrollment form is verified and validated and any change in coverage is processed into Quantum promptly
Responsible Party

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

9

Step
Claims:
MIP Claims are submitted through online claiming tool available in personal web page of the plan member, or, in a sealed envelope containing the MIP Refund Claim form and supporting documents, directly to the company that administers MIP claims, following the instructions on the claim form.
Responsible Party

ASHI Subscriber

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
Effective January 2004, UNDP outsourced the administration of MIP claims to an independent administration brokerage company (TPA). The company is responsible for administering MIP claims and for ensuring compliance by subscribers with the MIP rules and avoiding unreasonable or abusive use of the Plan.

10

Step
Reimbursement of claims:

Claims are verified and processed as follows:

If the claim fully meets requirements, a payment instruction is sent to the MIP HR Technical Support and a Statement of Benefits is sent to the staff member

If the claim does not meet requirements, a notification and/or request for further information/ documentation is sent to the staff member
Responsible Party

Claims Administration Company

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
Payment of claims is made through an interface between the claims administration company and Quantum. Payment that goes through this interface will not indicate the nature of the medical services provided.

Payment is made to the insured person, but, if the subscriber is no longer alive, payment will be made to his/her beneficiary as per P-2 Form “Designation of Beneficiaries". Patient confidentiality will be protected.

11

Step
Payments:

The payment instruction file received from the MIP administration company is uploaded into system and an instruction is sent to CO to effect payment
Responsible Party

MIP HR Technical Support

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

12

Step
Payments:

Vouchers are uploaded, payments are processed through accounts payable, and ASHI subscriber member is notified
Responsible Party

Finance Officer

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
In order to effect prompt and timely payment, the ASHI subscriber must be properly set up as a vendor in Quantum

13

Step
Change of residence:

When there is a change of country of residence, the following actions are taken:

Claims administration company and the appropriate UNDP office in the new country of residence are informed in writing and a completed MIP Application/ Request for Change form is completed

Data is updated in Quantum to reflect changes

ASHI contributions appropriate to new country residence are calculated and collected
Responsible Party

ASHI Subscriber,

Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
ASHI Subscriber/ HR Administrators in UNDP Offices of old and new countries of residence

If there is no UNDP Office in the new country of residence, the subscriber will be administered by the UNDP Office that is closest to the new country of residence. Participation in the after-service coverage will continue, provided the subscriber pays a contribution appropriate for the new country of residence.

The contribution will be in the currency of the new country of residence. The UNDP office will take steps to see that the insured persons were up-to-date in their contributions for after-service coverage in their previous country of residence.

Inventory Management

1

Step
ACQUISITION OF INVENTORIES
Obtain Approval from Procurement Services Office (PSO)
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

2

Step
Process transaction in Quantum through UNDP’s procurement catalogue​
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

3

Step
INVENTORY IN AND INVENTORY OUT
INVENTORY IN
Conduct an inventory inspection by comparing the shipment to the packing slip and approve purchase orders (POs)

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
In COs where UNDP has to act as principal recipient of Global Fund, all medical supplies / equipment received must be inspected by UNDP pharmacists following guidelines established by WHO to ensure the quality of medical supplies / equipment.​

4

Step
Record all receipts in an inventory in note with reference to the approved PO number
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
Inventory note should record the date, description & quantity of items received.​

5

Step
Inventory note singed by the receiving personnel and retain the duly signed copy in the office files.
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
A copy of this note should be sent to the CO’s Finance unit for later matching with the vendor’s invoice and PO during the payment process. Some COs may currently use Good Receive-In Note (GRN) for inventory in process, which has a similar format and serves the same function as inventory in note. For COs where GRN is not currently in use, the inventory in note must be used for inventory in process.​

6

Step
Assign a sequential document number to the inventory in note (or GRN).
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
The sequential number should start with operating unit ID and follow with sequential numbering. For example, In No.: JAM0005.​

7

Step
INVENTORY OUT
Submit an inventory issuance form to UNDP and get an approval by the RR or designated official.
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

8

Step
Separate items from the inventories​
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

9

Step
At the point of distribution, prepare an inventory out note (i.e. consumption record)​
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

10

Step
Obtain acknowledgement/signature of the local recipient/receiving personnel upon distribution/issuance & keep a record of all signed inventory out notes.
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
In some cases, UNDP acts as the principal recipient and procures Global Fund medical supplies, which are directly shipped to the central warehouses of sub-recipients (e.g. local governments). In this scenario, the control of the medical supplies is passed over to the sub-recipient only upon completion of quality inspections and inventory in process by UNDP staff. Therefore, in this scenario, UNDP staff are responsible for preparing both the inventory in note and the inventory out note​

11

Step
Assign a sequential document number to the issuance form and the inventory out note
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
The sequential number should be starting with operating unit ID followed by sequential numbering. For example, Issuance Request NO.: JAM0026 and Out No.: JAM0001.​

12

Step
Update stock cards to track movement of inventories
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
Maintaining stock cards and periodic physical verification process facilitate to determine the need for replenishments and monitor the movement of inventories.​

13

Step
PHYSICAL COUNT
Conduct an inventory count exercise on a periodic basis for each storage location as per Financial Closure (minimum semi annual for Q2 and Q4) Instructions.
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
COs may decide to perform a physical count at more frequent intervals (e.g. on monthly basis, or when a major shipment is received).​

14

Step
Obtain inventory count certification of the quantity and value of the inventories (including the impact of expiry, damage, obsolescence, etc.) reported by their offices from the Resident Representatives or designated officials.
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
​RRs shall appoint a focal point to oversee physical count of these inventories.

In the absence of a formal guidance on how to carry out physical counts, please refer to the Guidelines on Physical Count of Inventories.

15

Step

Compile inventory control report for each project, which records beginning and closing balances of the inventories during semi-annual counts, and submit it through the SharePoint Financial Closure site together with the RR’s inventory certification to the HQ Accounts Division

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
For COs that do not hold any inventory items on hand during semi-annual counts, the inventory control report with the RR’s inventory certification is still required, verifying that the balance of inventories is zero. The submission dates for the inventory control report and inventory certification are: 15th July and 15th January for the 2nd and 4th quarters respectively.​

16

Step
Review any variance between the stock cards and the physical inventory counts.​
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

17

Step
The items with variances shall be recounted; variances shall be investigated and resolved by the physical count focal point.​
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

18

Step
The RR should approve the outcome of the investigation.​
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

19

Step
Once the accuracy of counted items and units is approved by the RR, the physical count focal point shall then record these variances as quarterly inventory adjustments in the respective quarters on stock cards and document a thorough explanation for the variance​
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

20

Step
INVENTORY IN TRANSIT
Review the respective incoterms for each open purchase order and confirm whether, although the physical receipt of such items has not yet happened, the inventory items have become UNDP’s property based on the incoterms.
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
If goods are shipped through incoterms such as FOB shipping point, FAS, CIF, etc and are in transit at end of the 7 count period end, they must be recognized through the regular Receipting Process.

21

Step
At every count period end, review and record the balance of inventory in transit items that have become UNDP’s property based on the incoterms on the inventory control report.
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
Please refer to POPP Receipt of Goods, Services, Works for detailed policies and procedures on receipting for goods in transit.

22

Step
VALUATION OF INVENTORIES
Use the lower of cost and net realized value for inventory items that are held for sale
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

23

Step
Use the lower of cost and current replacement cost for inventory items held for distribution at no change or for a nominal charge​
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

24

Step
While calculating the cost of inventories, the costs shall be assigned by using the first in, first out (FIFO) method.
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
The FIFO method assumes that the items of inventory that were purchased first are sold first, and consequently the items remaining in inventory at the end of the period are those most recently purchased or produced. As UNDP uses the periodic inventory method to account for inventories at end of the semi-annual periods, the latest invoice price (s) shall be used to value the balance of inventories.

25

Step
For donated inventory items, fair value as at the date of donation should be used to determine cost. The fair value of a donated inventory item is normally based on what the item would cost if purchased (i.e. market purchase price). The quoted market prices or price bulletins in the active market will represent the best measure of fair value of donated inventory items.
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
Net realizable value or current replacement cost shall be determined in the following manner:
a) For inventories held for sale (e.g. UNDP publications held for sale), use the current selling price as the net realizable value;
b) For inventories held for distribution at nominal or no charge (e.g. Global Fund medical supplies), use the current purchase price as the net realizable value.​

26

Step

ACCOUNTING & REPORTING

The RR shall report on a semi-annual basis to HQ OFM/CFRA, through the SharePoint Financial Closure site, the quantity and value of inventories and inventory in transit at each count period by submitting certified inventory control reports.

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
The certification must be submitted by 15th July and 15th January for the 2nd and 4th quarters respectively.​

27

Step
An accounting journal entry will be recorded by GSSU Inventory with approval from HQ Accounts/ at every count period end, to account for the value of inventories as assets and to reduce the corresponding periodic expense by the same amount.
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
The accounting journal entry will be automatically reversed out in the following month. The accounting entries will be posted using the chart of accounts assigned to the inventories.
The following accounting entry will be recorded for each semi-annual inventory count:
DR. Inventories
CR. Expense
DR. Inventory in transit
CR. Expense​

28

Step
HQ Accounts must complete the review of the reports and record the accounting journal entry for the inventories by 20th July and 20th January fo, 2nd and 4th quarters respectively
Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes

29

Step

REPORTING IMPACT

GSSC will summarize the returns of inventory control reports and report the value of inventories as assets in the UNDP Financial Report

Responsible Party
Template/Guideline
Explanatory Notes
The accounting journal entry of inventories adjustment does NOT impact available resources in the project budget balance. However, the adjustment will affect the Donor Report and the Combined Delivery Report (CDR) effective 1 January 2012 as follows:

a) The donor report will present the value of inventories as “future expenses” under the category of “un-depreciated assets and inventory”. The value of inventories reported represents the items to be distributed and expensed in the next reporting period.

b) In the CDR, the value of inventories will be reported under the “fund utilization” section on the second page by UNDP. The value of inventories reported represents items to be distributed and expensed for programmes / projects in the next reporting period.​
Subscribe to