Ohio Workers’ Compensation

When a claim does occur go over all of your options with your partners (TPA/MCO). 
Here are some other items to keep in mind:

1. Wage continuation – contact your TPA to do a study to show cost benefits.
2. Modified Duty Off-Site (MDOS) – this can be coordinated with your TPA/MCO/Rehab provider. Offering a position at a non-profit within the injured workers’ restrictions is a good faith job offer.
3. Independent Medical Exams (IME) – consider getting your own company exam.  DID YOU KNOW:  BWC will no longer incorporate an additional allowance exam with extent of disability.  This is delaying the return to work process – you as the employer/TPA need to be aggressive.
4. Light duty/Transitional work – be flexible. 
   Work with your partners (TPA/MCO/Provider) on getting the injured worker back to some type of meaningful work.
5. Vocational rehabilitation – several different programs offered through the BWC surplus fund.  Research all of your options with your TPA/MCO. 
6. Functional capacity exam (FCE) – exam must be approved by the treating physician of record on a C9.  This exam will reveal the physical (function) as it relates to the injured workers’ job.  Work with your TPA/MCO to see if this is an option that should be considered. 

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It is hard to believe that 2007 is nearing the end.  Fall is right around the corner, the weather changing, leaves falling from the trees and yes, your yearly review of your claims experience that will make up your 2008 rates.  Unfortunately, there are few things that can be done to improve what has already happened but there are a few things to keep in mind. 

1. Settle claims – this various from claim to claim. Claims must be filed with the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation by 11-15 to impact the next year’s ratings.
2. Handicap reimbursement – impacts lost time claims that had wage continuation or TT paid out. A claim review should be completed to see if any of your lost time claims meet the BWC criteria (25 recognized conditions).
3. Review MIRA reserves – there is occasion where the BWC will set reserves in error. There should be a thorough review of your risk so that this does not occur.  If reserves are set in error – this can be corrected!

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