Defining the Future of AI in Absence Management: PERKY Sponsors Key AI Think Tank

Rochester, NY, February 2025 – PERKY, a leader in employee-facing digital benefit tools, is taking a proactive step in shaping the future of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the workplace by sponsoring a think tank focused on ethical and responsible AI in disability and absence management. The Disability Management Employer Coalition (DMEC) will manage and facilitate this crucial initiative.

The think tank will tackle the complex landscape of AI in absence management head-on, focusing on establishing clear ethical guidelines and best practices.

Key potential outcomes include standardized definitions, model disclosures on methodology, ongoing monitoring practices, and a clear articulation of the value proposition for employees (including employer expectations of cost savings or operational efficiencies).

“We believe these foundational discussions are essential. By defining terms, prioritizing transparency, and focusing on fairness, we can ensure that AI empowers us to create more equitable and efficient absence management programs.” – Shelby George, CEO of PERKY.

DMEC, a recognized leader in absence management resources and education, will expertly facilitate these critical discussions and synthesize the insights and recommendations from the think tank participants.

“DMEC is proud to partner with PERKY on this essential initiative. By addressing the unique challenges within the leave landscape, we can pave the way for responsible and ethical AI adoption that enhances how organizations support employees throughout their leave journey.” – Bryon E. Bass, CLMS, CEO of DMEC.

The think tank’s valuable findings and recommendations will be made available to the broader industry through several key channels: an executive summary white paper, presentations at DMEC’s annual conference, and additional related resources deemed valuable dependent on the results, all distributed via DMEC and PERKY.

Employers and other ecosystem partners in the leave of absence industry are encouraged to contribute their perspectives to this research effort by taking the AI Think Tank survey. DMEC’s survey explores current leave management practices, the adoption and potential of AI, and the challenges and opportunities facing organizations in this evolving landscape. Your participation will directly inform the development of industry best practices and resources. Help shape the future of AI in leave management – take the survey today!

About PERKY

PERKY is a leading provider of digital planning tools designed to simplify and enhance the employee experience. By leveraging innovative technology and user driven insights, PERKY empowers benefit-smart organizations to support their employees through significant life events, ensuring a smooth and personalized planning journey.

Contact:
PERKY
Samantha Saxby
hello@perkytech.com
585-404-4569
PERKY LinkedIn

About DMEC

The Disability Management Employer Coalition (DMEC) is the premier resource for absence and disability management professionals. DMEC provides comprehensive education, training, and networking opportunities, empowering professionals to develop and implement effective strategies for minimizing lost work time, maximizing workforce productivity, and ensuring legal compliance in their absence and disability programs.

Contact:
Disability Management Employer Coalition
Heather Grimshaw
hgrimshaw@dmec.org
1.800.789.3632 ext. 129
DMEC Linkedin

About AI Think Tank

The think tank will convene leading experts to establish industry best practices for the ethical and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in disability and absence management. Participants, representing a diverse range of stakeholders including AI ethicists, employers, TPAs, carriers, and potentially the DOL and EEOC, will collaborate in facilitated online discussions. The initiative will tackle critical issues such as transparency and explainability of AI models, fairness and bias mitigation, data privacy and security, and informed consent. Discussions will also focus on defining key AI terminology, establishing guidelines for human oversight and intervention, promoting regular audits and regulatory collaboration, and encouraging responsible AI procurement. Ultimately, the think tank aims to develop actionable frameworks and resources that empower organizations to implement AI in a compliant, ethical, and employee-centric manner.