The lesson employers can take away from this tale:
1. Ride herd (that's Texan for "actively monitor") on pending work comp claims.
2. Settle work comp claims sooner than later.
3. Communicate effectively with injured employees to circumvent lawsuits.
In 1999 the famous "Octo-Mom, a psychiatric technician at a California state hospital, filed a workers’ compensation claim. Eleven years later, the California Division of Workers’ Compensation (CDWC) settled the long-running lawsuit arising from the claim.
The claim, originally for $40,000, was decreased by $6,000 in legal fees and $10,880 in previously awarded advance payments, for a total settlement of $23,120.
"This should settle all issues of permanent disability and future medical needs" for the worker, according to Susan Gard, chief of legislation and policy at CDWC.
One item open to further litigation is a lien from the woman’s medical providers against the State Compensation Insurance Fund, Gard said. (workersxzcompxzkit)
Three groups, Southern California Mental Health Associates, Southern California Mental Health Pasadena, and AD-RX pharmacy, report they are owed money for the "octo-mom's" treatment. The mental health providers say they're still owed $800, collectively. The pharmacy claims it is owed an undetermined sum.
Author Rebecca Shafer, Consultant/Attorney, President, Amaxx Risks Solutions, Inc. has worked successfully for 20 years with many industries to reduce Workers’ Compensation costs, including airlines, healthcare, manufacturing, printing/publishing, pharmaceuticals, retail, hospitality and manufacturing. Contact: RShafer@ReduceYourWorkersComp.com or 860-553-6604.
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Do not use this information without independent verification. All state laws vary. You should consult with your insurance broker or agent about workers' comp issues.
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