Workers’ Comp: A People Business

The concept of workers’ compensation as a “people business” seems simple, but too often, it’s difficult to execute – especially given our reliance on technology and mass communications. But according to workers’ comp provider Key Risk, the following factors can contribute to more effective workers’ comp programs.
First, recognize that workers’ comp is a “people business.” Focus on a mission grounded the promise that if something happens to employees on the job, they’ll receive due benefits. Secondly, develop loss control programs to empower client organizations to prevent injuries in the first place. Finally, recognize that trust means everything in getting injured parties back to work. Allow nurse case managers to help employees return to work full time or implement transitional duty programs.

Less Can Be More
Develop a better way to manage workers’ comp claims. Key Risk links a commitment to lower case loads per claims profes­sional with a responsive claims call center. Focusing on customer service helps fa­cilitate claims reporting as well as reduces response time to basic questions.

Taking Out Unnecessary Costs
A third factor is expertise in medical bill and utilization review. Integrate the people, expertise and technology needed to reach the best claim outcome while containing medical cost.

Network
Applying local knowledge of area physicians and pharmacies adds a multi-layered medical and diagnostic provider network to better address the broad, as well as specialized, needs of injured workers.

The Right Stuff
Developing highly specialized classes of business and having offices located in key market areas helps workers’ comp providers better understand the particular economic drivers incumbent to a region, as well as competitive factors impacting their businesses. Focusing on key industries, regions and practices can really pay off.

By using these tips from Key Risk, you can make workers’ comp the “people business” it was meant to be – and create a more effective, successful workers’ comp program in the process.

Kim Doran founded Quixote Group as an independent business research and market consulting firm. She is a frequent contributing editor and market trends analyst on information dealing with business practices related to corporate branding, economic development, environmental issues, manufacturing, insurance, transportation and logistics, and may be reached at: 336-544-2406 or kdoran@quixotegroup.com.