Workplace safety: reducing injury risks for first-year employees

November 15, 2022

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By Lisa Orr, senior human factors consultant and Laura Oslund, senior risk services consultant

A core principle in risk services, one of the most effective ways to support employee safety and well-being and control workers’ compensation costs is to prevent on-the-job injuries from occurring in the first place. A population group that presents a significant challenge in this regard is first-year employees.

Multiple studies have shown (and Sedgwick’s book of business confirms) that about one-third of work-related injuries occur within the first year of starting a job. Statistics regarding the injury susceptibility of those in new roles have spiked over the past few decades, and very recent shifts in the workforce have exacerbated the issue. Employers seeking to protect employees and lower their total cost of risk should consider redoubling their safety efforts, with a particular focus on those new to the job.

New roles, new risks

The factors putting those new to a job at greatest risk of injury are a combination of physical and psychological. First, there is the question of physical fitness for the role. If a new employee has been out of work for some time or hasn’t performed the same kinds of tasks in a while, it will take their body time to get appropriately conditioned —leaving them susceptible to injury in the meantime. They also need to become accustomed to the demands of their new work facility, job responsibilities and equipment.

From a psychological standpoint, many join an organization and team wanting to make a good first impression. They are eager to do well and to show off what they can do. They sometimes cut corners in the interest of efficiency but sacrifice safety in the process. New employees may fear asking too many questions during the onboarding and orientation process, opting instead to do what they know rather than learning the standards and expectations of their new employer and role. For example, a forklift operator starting a new position might say they don’t need any training since they’ve been operating forklifts for years; however, different equipment and a different warehouse present new perils.

The makeup of today’s workforce puts employers and their employees at even greater risk. Increased workforce mobility — especially among younger workers — means people change jobs and fields more often, and organizations have higher percentages of first-year employees in their ranks. Further, the Great Resignation and labor shortages that emerged in the wake of the COVID pandemic have forced organizations to tap into new sources of talent. Employers desperate to fill open positions are hiring people and enlisting temporary/contract workers who may not have the education or work experience needed to perform jobs as safely and effectively as possible.

Safety recommendations for employers

There are many things organizations can do to mitigate the risks for first-year (and other) employees. Here are some suggestions:

  • Establish a strong safety culture: An emphasis on safe working behaviors should be embedded throughout organizational people practices and operating procedures. Safety standards and expectations — both enterprise-wise and location-specific — must be clearly documented and communicated, so those in new roles understand where not to take shortcuts and to instead err on the side of caution. It’s critical that management drive the safety culture, leading by example, reinforcing everyday practices and granting employees time for training. Workplace safety engagement should be personal, with a focus on caring for employees and enabling them to return home to their loved ones each day.
  • Start employees off on the right foot: It’s essential that safety-related messaging be included in orientation for new hires and those changing jobs within the organization. Employees benefit from strong collaboration between the HR team in charge of onboarding and those responsible for safety and on-the-job training, as well as clearly defined roles for each. It should be apparent to new employees how the organization defines success with regard to safety. And, as outlined above, even experienced professionals who say they don’t need to be trained should receive refreshers on safe use of the equipment they’ll be operating.
  • Focus on engagement: Don’t underestimate the connection between the mental, physical and social aspects of work. Research shows that engaged employees in positive work environments are less likely to get injured. In an effort to promote employee safety, many organizations adopted workplace yoga and stretching programs in recent years. Studies of these efforts haven’t directly linked them to injury prevention but have shown their contributions to teambuilding and engagement — which, in turn, support employee safety. Mentorship from an experienced colleague or manager with the applicable skillsets and commitment to safety further promotes employee engagement.
  • Consider the role of technology: Many associate technology with distractions that can lead to accidents (like texting while working or driving), but the tech space has a lot to offer when it comes to employee safety. Wearable devices, ranging from smartwatches that monitor biometrics to robotic exoskeletons that support body mechanics, can improve employee health and safety behaviors when implemented effectively. Technology also enhances and expands safety training options, through gamification, engaging interactivity, realistic simulations and more.
  • Strive for continuous improvement: Safety training is not a “one and done.” Employees need ongoing refreshers on the organization’s expectations and should be evaluated at various intervals via surveys, behavioral checks and other means to ensure the training works in practice. Diverse learning styles and fresh training methods should be incorporated in any safety initiative; many adults learners gain the most information from a “tell-show-do” approach.

People are the greatest asset to any organization. When it comes to protecting employees, organizations —whether they’re in a fast-moving industry, such as food service/hospitality, health care, construction or energy or in a slower-paced field — must always work toward enhancing safety and quickly bringing new employees into the fold of the culture. The stakes, especially for those in their first year on the job, are simply too high to ignore.

Learn more — read about Sedgwick’s risk services offerings, or contact Michael Dougherty, risk services manager, to explore how our experts can help to make your workplace safer

National Comp recap

October 28, 2022

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By Josephine Copeland – SVP product design and strategy, Dr. Teresa Bartlett – managing director and Jason Bliss – SVP business development

Staffing demands are top of mind for employers around the world and across all industries. How do we support claims examiners as case load increases, especially during a time when attracting and retaining talent is so difficult?

Many employers have evolved their organizational culture to set themselves apart from the competition. And while COVID has certainly played a role in some of the workforce challenges, long-COVID has created a new landscape for employers to navigate.

Earlier this month, Josephine Copeland, Dr. Teresa Bartlett and Jason Bliss attended National Comp, our last major U.S. industry event as we wrap up 2022. In this podcast, they recap the event — sharing key takeaways from their sessions, trends they’re keeping a close eye on and what they expect to be front and center in 2023. To listen, click here.

PIEF recap: the power of influence

October 27, 2022

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By Kimberly George – global head, innovation and product development and Shane O’Dea – head of strategic partnerships and programs, workers compensation

Most personal injury and workers compensation schemes around the globe are focusing on the injured worker being at the center of everything they do.

When we take a step back and look at the power of influence, we can improve claims outcomes and elevate the overall experience. The power of influence is what builds trust, and when there is a trust, an injured worker is more apt to listen and make decisions that promote return to work and productivity.

Earlier this month, Shane O’Dea and Kimberly George attended the PIEF conference in Australia. In this podcast, they recap the personal injury industry event — sharing insights on technology advancements and the future of workers compensation in Australia and around the world. To listen to the podcast, click here.

Legislation updates: Disability, leave and workers’ compensation

October 20, 2022

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Sedgwick regularly monitors and reports on disability, leave and workers’ compensation legislation impacting our customers. Click on the links below for summaries of recent updates.

September 2022 leave law summary – U.S.
Federal legislation along with legislation in California and Colorado.

September 2022 leave law summary – Canada
Updates in federal and maritime provinces.

September 2022 workers’ comp law summary – U.S.
Legislative changes for private employers and public entities in California, District of Columbia, New Jersey, New York and Wisconsin along with federal legislation to watch.

September 2022 Medicare compliance summary – U.S.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) update regarding Liability Medicare Set Asides (MSAs).

Expand your view at National Comp 2022

October 11, 2022

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By Kathy Tazic, managing director client services

Our industry will gather at National Comp in Las Vegas Oct. 19-21. We look forward to seeing our clients and partners throughout the conference and talking about some of the significant challenges and opportunities facing our industry. Here is a glimpse at what’s coming your way.

Your National Comp roundup

Wednesday, October 19 at 1:30 pm

> From hybrid workplaces to DEI: how the industry can adapt to the workforce of tomorrow.

Speakers: Josephine Copeland, Sedgwick and Danielle Lisenbey, MedRisk

Thursday, October 20 at 10:30 am

> Yes, claims management is part of your company’s brand. How these strategies can help elevate it.

Speakers: Max Koonce, Sedgwick, Kelly Webb, Albertsons companies and Kim Pfingstag, International Paper

Thursday, October 20 at 3:15pm

> Long COVID and other perplexing matters on the road ahead.

Speakers: Teresa Bartlett, Sedgwick, Anas Al-Hamwi, Walgreen Co, Patti Colwell, Southwest Airlines and Steve Figliuolo, Chick-fil-a

Trending topics

Our team will be on site to keep attendees informed on emerging challenges, opportunities and industry news. Stop by booth #629 to learn about trending technologyenvironmental, social, governance (ESG), the war for talentmanaged caremanaging marketplace unpredictabilitylitigation strategies and the impact of COVID-19 and long-haul claims. We look forward to starting the conversation and sharing insights with you.

We’ll see you at the conference, but until then…

  • Catch up on the latest edge magazine articles.
  • Follow Sedgwick on LinkedInTwitter and Instagram for live updates.
  • Search #NationalComp2022 to explore what’s trending on social media the week of the show.

Every step of the way, we’re here to help you embrace, elevate and expand your view. See you next week, Vegas!

Expand your view at PIEF 2022

October 5, 2022

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by Shane O’Dea, head of strategic partnerships and programs, workers compensation

During the Personal Injury & Disability National Conference, an array of stakeholders across Australia will come together to discuss outcomes and industry best practices for the motor accident, workers compensation, disability and life insurance sectors. Our own experts will take part in a session about leveraging the power of influence to elevate claims program success. Here is a glimpse at what’s coming your way.

The power of influence: How trust can improve claims outcomes and experience

Kimberly George | October 11 at 2:50pm

Undoubtedly, workplace accidents and injuries disrupt lives. However, the path toward resolution doesn’t have to be unsettling. Where a convoluted and complex claims process can further aggravate uncertainties, a well-managed, curated process can ensure return to work is seamless as possible. With an advocacy approach, an individual is engaged each step along the way and surrounded by the resources they need. Trust makes all the difference; with mutual understanding, transparent communication and supportive technology, recovery timeframes are agreed upon, delays are reduced and claims costs are kept under control.

Leading organisations are learning how to leverage the power of influence to aid the injured worker’s recovery and streamline the claims process. This begins with building trust, increasing engagement, and taking an advocacy approach that places the injured worker’s needs at the center of the process. Attendees will walk away from this session with an understanding of:

  • The practical, proven communication strategies that engage all stakeholders, including employers, doctors and injured workers.
  • How technology can support an advocacy model and encourage positive relationships in the claims process.
  • How a people first, tech forward and data driven strategy translates into a more positive experience for injured employees and improved outcomes for their organisations.

Opportunities to expand your view

Throughout the conference, Sedgwick leaders will lead panel discussions about workers compensation and international perspective and partnership. Tune in October 11 at 3:40pm to hear from Shane O’Dea and October 12 at 3:10pm for another chance to learn from Kimberly George. Countless individuals and teams across Australia have developed or implemented innovative solutions — enabling their organisation to provide new or improved services for people with an injury or disability, their employer or other appropriate stakeholders. To celebrate and showcase recent achievements, Sedgwick will sponsor the innovation in injury and disability management award. Kimberly George will present the winner at the Gala Conference dinner.

We’ll see you at the conference, but in the meantime…

  • Catch up on the edge magazine articles.
  • Follow Sedgwick on LinkedInTwitter and Instagram for live updates.
  • Search #PIEF2022 to explore what’s trending on social media the week of the conference.

Every step of the way, we’re here to help you embrace, elevate and expand your view. See you soon, Brisbane!

Legislation updates: Disability, leave and workers’ compensation

September 28, 2022

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Sedgwick regularly monitors and reports on disability, leave and workers’ compensation legislation impacting our customers. Click on the links below for summaries of recent updates.

August 2022 leave law summary – U.S.
Legislation in California, Connecticut, New Jersey, Oregon and Washington.

August 2022 leave law summary – Canada
Legislation in Ontario.

August 2022 workers’ comp law summary – U.S.
Legislative changes for private employers and public entities in California, Colorado, Florida and New York along with legislation to watch in the U.S. House of Representatives and Michigan.

Chiropractic care in workers’ compensation

September 12, 2022

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By David Kessler, D.C., M.H.A. CHCQM, SVP and medical director, Sedgwick Managed Care Ohio (MCO)

The Workers’ Compensation Research Institute (WCRI) recently published the findings of its study on the use of chiropractic care to treat injured workers in the United States suffering from lower back pain.

As a chiropractor by training and a longtime practitioner in the Ohio workers’ compensation and managed care arena, I was intrigued by this publication. The findings themselves are quite interesting and signal that further research on today’s physical medicine landscape is well warranted; however, their primary significance is, in my mind, to highlight the renewed role of chiropractic care in workers’ compensation.

The researchers found that average per-claim costs — both medical and indemnity — for low-back pain incurred on the job were lower for those treated exclusively by chiropractors, rather than other clinical specialists. Further, the injured workers studied who were treated exclusively by chiropractors were significantly less likely to be prescribed opioid drugs or to receive diagnostic imaging scans. (For detailed findings, refer to the study report.)

History and context

The 1990s were marked by rapidly rising healthcare costs. This spike, of course, strained workers’ compensation systems across the U.S. Multiple studies conducted during that decade found that chiropractic utilization was a significant driver of workers’ compensation healthcare spending — leaving many questioning its cost-effectiveness. This skepticism led a number of states to implement workers’ comp policy reforms and cost control measures limiting the use of chiropractic care in favor of other treatments viewed as more evidence-based and economical.

The results of the recent WCRI paint a far more encouraging picture of chiropractic care for injured workers than the findings of the 90s-era research.

What changed?

I believe there are a few factors contributing to the disparate findings.

  • Patient empowerment: Historically, patients remained under chiropractors’ care for extended periods, and progress toward recovery was dependent on adjustments or manipulation administered in the office. (The traditionally prolonged duration of chiropractic treatment and cost increases that began in the ‘90s are other reasons why it fell out of favor.) Today’s outcomes-based chiropractor focuses more on evidence-based guidelines and structured treatment plans with functional goals that ultimately transition patients to self-care in order to hasten improvement and alleviate reliance on in-office care. They educate injured workers on stretching and strengthening exercises to perform at home, as well as strategies for safe return to work and prevention of further strain, such as appropriate biomechanics and lifting techniques.
  • Continuing education: Many chiropractors now undertake training in complementary specialties and treatment approaches, such as sports injury management, orthopedics, neurology and more. This enables outcomes-based practitioners to leverage the knowledge and practices of other areas in physical medicine, as well as interdisciplinary care plans, and offers them additional tools to help injured workers achieve relief from back pain and greater productivity.
  • Multidisciplinary care: Although the recent WCRI study primarily highlighted injured workers treated exclusively by chiropractors, some of the greatest successes I’ve seen of late were in complex cases that warranted an integrated model of care when patients did not achieve the anticipated evidence-based recovery measures after chiropractic treatment alone. There is a burgeoning trend of multidisciplinary clinics opening to treat high-severity musculoskeletal issues — where orthopedists, family physicians, nurse practitioners, neurologists, physical therapists, chiropractors, massage therapists, surgeons and other specialists work together to deliver holistic care under one roof. Rather than presuming that any one specialty has all the answers for a given individual, this integrated approach covers a variety of treatment protocols and allows for quality, collaborative care for complex injuries. However, enlisting multiple practitioners can increase the medical costs on a claim, so it should be done prudently and only when warranted by the severity and complexity of the case.

Opportunities in the WC arena

Many in the workers’ compensation, managed care and employer arena still hold onto longstanding perceptions of chiropractors as providing care for extended durations without evidence of measurable or functional benefits. As a result, they tend to shy away from including chiropractic care in injured workers’ treatment plans, for fear of increasing medical costs with little return on investment and potentially extending lost work time. While some continue to distrust the effectiveness of chiropractic treatment, millions of people achieve healing and pain relief under the care of evidence-based chiropractors. (The WCRI study pointed out that individuals with non-occupational back injuries are much more likely to seek chiropractic care than those injured on the job.)

In light of escalating concerns over addictive pain medications, long-term side effects and rising pharmacy and surgery costs, chiropractic care offers a non-invasive way to help injured workers improve their quality of life and their productivity. Some people respond well to chiropractic treatment, others may not, and particularly complex cases may require multiple treatment approaches. However, chiropractic intervention is an overall low-risk and comparatively low-cost treatment option that merits further consideration.

Workers’ comp in the U.S. may present a unique opportunity for optimal utilization of chiropractic care because of the system structure. Unlike individuals seeking treatment for non-occupational injuries, workers’ comp patients have a claims examiner, often a nurse case manager and others assisting in the coordination of their care. These professionals are trained in managing complex cases, asking the right questions, and facilitating communication and cooperation between treatment providers. Since occupational injuries are covered under workers’ comp, patients don’t have to worry about copays to multiple specialists and meeting medical plan deductibles. Instead, they and their claims team can focus on pursuing the right care from the right treatment providers at the right time.

I hope that WCRI’s publication opens the door to greater consideration of chiropractic care with physical medicine modalities in workers’ compensation cases and to a reexamination of the regulations currently limiting the access of injured workers in certain states to high-quality, evidence-based chiropractic care.

Considerations for the future of workers’ compensation

September 6, 2022

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By Max Koonce, chief claims officer

Workers’ compensation’s original premise, the “Grand Bargain”, has remained consistent since its inception in the early 20th century.

There have been exceptions and variations to the definition of disease and injury coverage, types of benefits and to what extent they apply, and the value of the benefits. However, this original construct has continued throughout the generational, industrial, technological, societal, and cultural shifts/growth that has occurred over the last 100+ years.

The future of workers’ compensation will undoubtedly be influenced by the global health crisis of COVID-19. In his book, ‘Scenarios for the 2030s: Threats and Opportunities for Workers’ Compensation Systems, Dr. Rick Victor shares six points to consider as to the future of the workers’ compensation system: demographic changes in the workforce, healthcare reform, SSDI solvency, fiscal distress at the government level, globalization pressures intensify, and legislative and regulatory reform. Since early 2020, we have seen changes in each of these six points, but three particularly stand out as considerations for the future.

Workforce

Demographics in the workforce have been impacted significantly over the course of the last 2+ years. Some of these changes were already predicted by experts, for instance, the baby boomer generation exit from the workforce. Although many others were not, including the transition to greater remote workers; unemployment vacillation from high to extremely low within a period of 2 years; and a record number of job openings. These changes are impacting employee expectations, the skill set of the workforce, extreme job transitioning, and job tenure, which will tend to, in turn, impact workers’ compensation claims and their outcomes.

Healthcare

As one would expect during a pandemic, the healthcare industry was “front and center”. Patient access to healthcare information through technological advances simultaneously helped and hindered progress towards a trusting and beneficial healthcare environment. On one hand, patients can get instant access to electronic health records, test information and more via provider portals and access telehealth care which was accelerated in the pandemic. On the other hand, not all the information available online is trustworthy or reputable, which has led to a decrease in trust in the overall healthcare system based on the Robert Wood Johnson Public Health Survey in May of 2021.

As we consider the future of workers’ compensation, the benefits and challenges of telehealth must be addressed. Telehealth has been largely successful as a care option and is a useful method for care specific to workers’ compensation cases. With all signs pointing to virtual care being here to stay, expect telehealth workers’ compensation solutions to continue and become even more sophisticated and integrated.

The next frontier spurred on by new trust in technology is the use of medical device data in healthcare solutions, whether in everyday care or in workers’ compensation claims. Medical data from devices like phones and smartwatches will be useful in monitoring recovery in patients — particularly in workers’ compensation claims where improving return-to-work outcomes relies on careful tracking. The claims industry can take advantage of a richer health dataset by changing data modeling to focus on proactive care to prevent injuries from happening in the first place and improving gaps in safety and claims performance.

Currently, not every state supports the use of device data in healthcare cases and claims, but in the future, broader adoption is possible as data security systems get more sophisticated. Care and benefits providers need to become involved in this process to help regulators and advocate for wider adoption for this technology.

Legislation/regulations

Legislative and regulatory action for COVID-19 become a heightened focus in the workers’ compensation industry during the pandemic. Numerous states enacted, by legislation or executive order, compensability presumptions for COVID-19. These regulations varied as to employees covered with some states focusing on healthcare workers and first responders, while in other states the presumption applied to anyone working outside the home. This broadening of presumptions for COVID-19 in workers’ compensation systems raised a question as to “socialization of risks” — employers given ownership of something as ubiquitous as a global pandemic — counter to workers’ compensation’s focus on risks directly related to the employment.

Employers were also challenged with managing through a myriad of new legislation and regulations regarding sick/leave/disability. Many employers embraced the challenge and incorporated an employee-focused integrated care process to ensure employee support through workers’ compensation or sick/leave/disability. It became evident that a holistic focus on the employee can be done effectively while keeping transparency in reporting and management across departments. The pandemic pushed for improved analytics and data tracking to determine the status of benefits reporting, which overall fed into a greater focus on the total health and safety of employees within benefits and workers’ compensation programs. Compassionate care through an integrated approach that puts employees first could be part of the “new normal”.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) provided guidance for compliance and rules for COVID-19 that at times appeared to be confusing. For instance, is COVID-19 recordable or not; what safety guidelines are currently in place; mask or no mask. Further, it remains unclear, generally, whether COVID-19 is a risk of employment for all industries.

How the industry responded to the past 2+ years will influence the future of workers’ compensation systems. Of course, there is no crystal ball. The goal of looking at the past and present circumstances to infer what’s on the horizon is to plan now for future-ready and robust workers’ compensation programs. In each factor for change, there is room for employers to contribute, influence and take part in that future. The focus is to promote a safe and productive work environment for employees and to ensure a fair and equitable administrative process to address work-related injuries.

Learn more — check out an expanded version of this blog here.

Legislation updates: Disability, leave and workers’ compensation

August 26, 2022

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Sedgwick regularly monitors and reports on disability, leave and workers’ compensation legislation impacting our customers. Click on the links below for summaries of recent updates.

July 2022 leave law summary – U.S.
Legislation in District of Columbia, Michigan and Oregon.

July 2022 leave law summary – Canada
Federal legislation along with legislation in Ontario.

July 2022 workers’ comp law summary – U.S.
Legislative changes for private employers and public entities in Alaska, Arizona, California, Idaho, New Hampshire, North Carolina and Rhode Island along with legislation to watch in California.

Embrace, elevate and expand your view at WCI 2022

August 21, 2022

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Written by David Stills, senior vice president, carrier and risk practice

All eyes on workers’ compensation… and a look at what’s next

Workers’ compensation is comprised of multiple state systems, each with their own unique set of rules and regulations that are in constant flux. The definition of compensability is continually evolving and benefits are constantly changing — as are the needs and expectations of the injured workers and companies. During the Workers’ Compensation Institute’s (WCI) annual Workers’ Compensation Educational Conference, an array of stakeholders representing all facets of the industry will come together to discuss some of the most pressing workers’ compensation issues and what’s next. Throughout our series of sessions, experts will discuss ways to elevate the injured worker’s experience, optimize outcomes and streamline the claims process. Here is a glimpse at what’s coming your way.

Examining medical care advancements for today’s injured worker

Monday, August 21 | 1-2pm

The medical care and recovery environment of an injured worker largely determines the outcome of a workers’ compensation claim. Effectiveness is driven by how quickly care is administered and the appropriateness of the treatment that is provided. Greater emphasis is being placed on providing more holistic treatment of an injured worker. The introduction of behavioral health specialists, pain specialists, and surgery nurses are being more widely adopted and embraced to improve experience and outcomes. Telehealth is making medical follow-up more convenient and increasing adherence to prescribed treatment plans. The importance of medical literacy is becoming better understood and there are increasing communications around treatment options, pre-existing conditions, current medications, and other factors that can impact recovery. When quality medical care is rendered, an injured worker is better able to focus on healing, recovery, and returning to an active and productive lifestyle.

Speakers: Tara Acton, claims director & counsel, Lumen Technologies Dr. Teresa Bartlett, managing director, Senior Medical Officer, Sedgwick Michele Maffei, director of workers’ compensation, Publix Super Markets

Looking at ways to streamline the claims process to optimize outcomes and experience

Monday, August 21 | 2:15-3:15pm

A claims strategy with a strong employee focus is paramount in today’s competitive business environment. Impressions are formed at the time an incident is reported and continue throughout the recovery and return to work process. Individuals will note the urgency, compassion, and concern expressed in response to their injury, the communication and guidance they are provided throughout the claims process, and the degree to which a fair and equitable settlement is established. Employers must ensure their culture and brand are manifested in all aspects of the workers’ compensation process, particularly in their interactions with employees. This session will focus on practical and proven strategies to elevate employee experience, corporate brand, and financial performance.

Speakers: Patti Colwell, workers’ compensation program manager, Southwest Airlines Max Koonce, chief claims officer, Sedgwick Nancy Strubler, director of workers’ compensation, National Express, LLC

Focusing on data patterns, emerging trends and specialty research to mirror future impact

Monday, August 21 | 3:15-4:15pm

Well-known industry specialists will share highlights from their in-depth analyses and research related to areas having a notable impact on workers’ compensation. Hear one of the industry’s leading researchers share new insights around provider consolidation and its projected impact on injured worker care and costs. Listen to a highly acclaimed chief data officer as he shares patterns detected in data and what these can indicate about future litigation using attorney firm scorecards. And take note of trends emerging from California research that relate to access to care and what they may mean for workers and businesses across the rest of the country. Data patterns, emerging trends, and specialty research of this magnitude are as close as it gets to mirroring future happenings.

Speakers: Adam Fisher, chief data officer, Sedgwick John Ruser, president and CEO, The Workers’ Compensation Research Institute Alex Swedlow, president, California Workers’ Compensation Institute

The opportunities at this year’s WCI conference will be one more reminder that our professional lives have meaning and impact. When we work together under unique circumstances, the industry is stronger and the injured worker experience is improved.

We’ll see you at the conference, but in the meantime…

  • Catch up on the latest edge magazine articles.
  • Follow Sedgwick on LinkedInTwitter and Instagram for live updates.
  • Search #WCI2022 to explore what’s trending on social media the week of the show.

Every step of the way, we’re here to help you embrace, elevate and expand your view. Find us at booth #803 to connect with leaders throughout the conference.

Kick off to WCI 2022

August 18, 2022

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By Max Koonce, chief claims officer

The Workers’ Compensation Institute (WCI) will celebrate the 76th Annual Workers’ Compensation Educational Conference and the 33rd Safety & Health Conference in Orlando, Florida August 21-24.

An array of stakeholders representing all facets of the industry will once again begin a dialogue and exchange ideas about how to improve workers’ compensation systems and the injured employee experience. As in years past, Sedgwick will play a prominent role at this event — highlighting some of the industry’s most advanced solutions and concepts within the workers’ compensation arena.

Giving back

Join us Saturday, August 20 for a volunteer day and gala to support Give Kids the World (GKTW) Village, an 89-acre, nonprofit “storybook” resort in Central Florida where children with critical illnesses and their families are treated to weeklong, cost-free vacations. Last year, even amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the WCI community continued its ongoing support of GKTW. Under Doug Clark’s leadership, WCI volunteers and donors raised over $125,000 during the WCI 2021 service day, silent auction and gala. Tune in Monday to hear Doug announce the fundraising results for 2022.

Opportunities to embrace, elevate and expand your view

Throughout the educational sessions, Sedgwick leaders will cover 13 topics — from advancing medical care and streamlining claim processes to addressing pain management and talent concerns. The lineup includes experts like David Stills, Teresa Bartlett, Michelle Hay, Jeff Ziblut, Andrea Buhl and more. A packed house is especially expected for the Monday morning keynote about the battle for talent hosted by Sedgwick’s own Kimberly George and Safety National’s Mark Walls. And with talent on your mind, be sure to register for The Alliance of Women in Workers’ Compensation workshop on Wednesday morning for insight on cultivating a strong culture and talent management strategy. Find us at booth #803 in the exhibit hall to connect with leaders throughout the conference.

We’ll see you at the conference, but until then…

  • Catch up on the latest edge magazine articles.
  • Follow Sedgwick on LinkedInTwitter and Instagram for live updates.
  • Search #WCI2022 to explore what’s trending on social media the week of the show.

Every step of the way, we’re here to help you embrace, elevate and expand your view. See you next week, Orlando!