At the 2024 WCRI Annual Conference, Harvard economist David Cutler discussed the recent transformations of the healthcare system. Currently, there is more uncertainty in the healthcare system than ever before. Healthcare systems are struggling with staffing, pricing, reimbursement rates, and even solvency. Overall healthcare needs fell during COVID as people delayed elective procedures. This was an economic shock to the healthcare system, which resulted in some systems becoming insolvent and increased industry consolidation. However, hospital admissions are still not back to pre-pandemic levels. Telehealth use expectedly increased during COVID. However, its use has decreased and is now less than 15%
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At the 2024 PARMA Annual Conference, a session discussed the challenges of navigating the intersection of workers’ compensation with the American Disabilities Act (ADA), Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and leave of absence laws. The speakers were David Setzkorn from Sedgwick and Dawn Watkins from Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). FMLA FMLA, which has been mandated by law for 31 years, provides 12 weeks of unpaid leave to employees during a 12-month period. During their leave, healthcare benefits are continued and guarantees that after leave, an employee is restored to the same or equivalent job. These benefits can
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How are workforces evolving? As time moves forward, companies and organizations still operate in ways shaped by the pandemic. At the 2023 Workers’ Compensation Institute Educational Conference, industry leaders addressed generational issues and practical concerns growing within the workforce.  Learn about complexities in remote and on-site working environments and the trending innovations for day-to-day operations. From relevant ethics to emerging medical technology, experts address the fundamental revolutions lying ahead of us. Session speakers included: David Stills – Senior VP, Carrier & Risk Practice, Sedgwick Marc Salm – VP Risk Management, Publix Negar Matian – Attorney, Matian Law Group Suzy Braden
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Today’s risk management issues are faster and more complex than ever before. Organizations must be vigilant in monitoring and managing challenges stemming from insurance market fluctuations, emerging cyber risks, increasing nuclear verdicts, and pulsating pressures on the workforce. This environment thrusts the spotlight on risk management while elevating professional prominence and visibility within the C-Suite and board. In this session from the 2023 Workers’ Compensation Institute Educational Conference, industry leaders explain how risk-related demands impact organizational strategies and decisions while outlining actions risk professionals can take to anticipate future unknowns. Learn what C-Suite executives are doing to navigate these influences.
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What is the definition of empathy? How is empathy incorporated into your return to work (RTW) program, and if not, how do you propose it changes? During the 2023 Workers’ Compensation Institute Educational Conference, a panel of experts broke down practical ways to implement empathy in your program. Discover what active/reflective and empathetic listening is all about and learn how to properly track the success of your program. This session was presented by: Debra Livingston – CEO/Founder, ReEmployAbility, Inc.  Allison Kelly – VP of Business Development, Sedgwick  Kim Pfingstag – Manager, Occupational Care and Recovery, International Paper Greg Hamlin –
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A belief unanimously shared in the Workers’ Compensation claims handling industry is that the best possible outcomes are either a complete trial win or a financially favorable settlement. At the 2023 Workers’ Compensation Institute Educational Conference, experts addressed the “best practices” to help prepare for both outcomes. Through both employer and claims management perspectives, specific suggestions identify and create unconventional windows of opportunity to initiate and complete the settlement negotiation process from a position of strength. Learn the key lessons from this session’s speaking panel: Scott Silver – P.L., Attorney, MKRS Law Crystal Chancey – Claims Manager, Publix Super Markets,
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While many workers’ compensation claims involve a specific injury or event, cumulative trauma claims can involve injuries that occur over a longer period. This timeline creates both challenges and opportunities to achieve a better claims outcome. At the 2023 Workers’ Compensation Institute Educational Conference, a panel explored some foundational data and opportunities to more effectively manage cumulative trauma losses. Speakers included: Jennifer Cogbill – Senior Vice President | Gallagher Bassett Services Pam Ferrandino – Vice President, National Market Engagement | Gallagher Bassett Services Sherri Johnson – VP Corporate Claims | Aimbridge Hospitality Carol Ungaretti – Managing Consultant | Aon The
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We all know how much pre-existing conditions can affect the outcomes of your claims. They can prolong disability time frames, exponentially increase claim costs, and more. At the 2023 Workers’ Compensation Institute Educational Conference, a medical panel discussed the barriers that can occur from comorbidities and how to avoid their associated pitfalls. Speakers included: Zack Craft – VP Complex Claim | MTI America Dr. Mark Glencross – Director of Occupational Medicine | Tampa General Hospital Teddy Gonzalez – Vice-President | Field Case Managers Dr. Steve Weber – Physician | Orlando Orthopedic Center Impact on Claims In a recent NCCI study,
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At the 2023 Workers’ Compensation Institute Educational Conference, presenters provided an in-depth review of strategies, tools, and innovations to assist employers with Return to Work (RTW) initiatives. Uncovering the resources for employers to prioritize Return to Work programs, this session discusses the latest technology trends, artificial intelligence, and how the human touch helps promote workplace safety upon return. Highlighting this presentation was forum of speakers including: 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
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Social media has revolutionized our daily lives, as it provides an outlet for constant recognition and acknowledgment. How do we maintain employee advocacy while still thoroughly investigating a claim? What investigative tools can we utilize to achieve the best outcome for the employee and the employer? Should we investigate to confirm or deny an employee’s claim? In this session at WCI’s 2023 Workers’ Compensation Educational Conference, a panel discussed how employers and business partners can navigate these decisions while maintaining employee advocacy and limiting litigation. Speakers included: Crystal Chancey – Claims Manager | Publix Super Markets, Inc. Steve Figliuolo –
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