Blending Technology with Human Touch

• Max Topper – PHC
• Jennifer Cogbill – Senior Vice President, Gallagher Bassett Services 
• Ania Caruso – SE Regional Casualty Practice Leader, Arthur J. Gallagher and Company
• Rosa Royo – Director of Workers’ Compensation, Miami Dade County Public Schools

Elements That Make Return to Work Possible

RTW programs are very customizable. Whether it’s the job functions or the geographical location of your organization, there are plenty of factors affecting the system. While many companies share a desire to return to work, a lot lack the ability to fulfill the task. The right strategy with the proper resources can help make the transition a reality. When it comes to RTW, a thorough, cohesive plan is critical, and a tailored strategy will help make the return productive and seamless.

AI and Decision Support

The technology of artificial intelligence can have a meaningful impact, especially on the outcome of a claim. Though AI is a key innovation in motion, it is to serve as a complement, rather than a replacement on the job. In fact, more organizations continue adopting AI to help shape a more personable culture.

AI tools are simply enhancing the insight we gather. The technology is designed to assist day-to-day functions, driving efficiencies particularly in managing data analytics. Its systems collect information quickly, ultimately giving employees more time to shift focus on nurturing essential human connections.

Many companies utilize these resources on macro and micro levels. When used on a macro level, AI can drive significant change. During return to work, an AI system can be set to monitor and assess risk on the landscape. On the micro level, AI breaks down the granular information, to free up stakeholders to apply a hands-on approach to execute a careful, comfortable, and effective RTW transition.

Claims Handling Impact of Technology

We are on a wave of innovation, and failing to embrace changes in technological advances has significant disadvantages. The “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it” mentality doesn’t carry the same weight it once had. Yes, change can be scary, but refusing to make a change comes with multiple setbacks. Our industry revolves around the latest data, and today’s technology can help streamline the way we work with it.

A spreadsheet logged with notes just isn’t sustainable. Organizations are growing, cultures are expanding, and new risks are emerging. New claims handling tools can help drive safety, transparency, and overall efficiency in RTW initiatives.

What’s Next?

Our industry is making strides with data management. We are officially on the cusp of innovation. Ultimately, the more data we are exposed to, the better we can adapt to claims on an individual scale. With more technology handling  the meticulous work behind the scenes, we are better able to serve clients directly. As long as we accept and embrace the inevitable innovations, we are on the horizon of a bright future.