News from Assurance, BerniePortal, Cigna, Envestnet, Express Scripts, FINRA Investor Education Foundation, Hub International, OneDigital, The Travelers Companies, and more. (Photo: Shutterstock)

Much is happening in the employee benefits industry and its related fields. We've heard of a good number of partnerships and collaborations, as well as promotions and new hires. If we missed any announcements, send them using our contact form or contact this editor for inclusion next time.

The Travelers Companies, Inc. reported an almost 40 percent reduction in the use of opioids among injured construction workers it has helped, thanks to a combination of its Early Severity Predictor model and its comprehensive pharmacy management program. The Early Severity Predictor helps forecast which injured employees are at higher risk of developing chronic pain, while the pharmacy management program monitors drug interactions, excessive dosing and abuse patterns to reduce the risk of opioid dependency.

Standard Insurance Company announced that the Missouri State Employees' Retirement System received its latest Workplace PossibilitiesSM Champions award for its outstanding return-to-work and stay-at-work programs.The award honors employers that have achieved excellence with the Workplace Possibilities program, which helps manage absence and disability in the workplace.