Top Seven Ways Adjusters Can Help The Employer Manage Ongoing Claims

We all know the time from moment of injury to final resolution can be lengthy. A competent business manages the process in an organized manner by monitoring all claims to ensure adjusters start working the claim as soon as it is reported.

Clearly define the role of your adjuster and injury coordinator to ensure a clear delineation between the roles. The injury coordinator provides input into overall “big picture” strategy on claims.

Adjusters determine compensability pursuant to state law on individual claims.

Seven Guidelines for Managing Ongoing Claims

1. Adjusters must contact the employee, the employer, and the doctor immediately after the work-related incident occurs.
2. Adjusters must ensure the employee receives medical treatment and medication.
3. Adjusters must notify injury coordinator if the employee misses medical appointments.
4. If the injury is questionable, adjusters must investigate the incident and immediately report to the employer.
5. Adjusters must assist in determining which transitional jobs best accommodate the physical limitations of injured employees.
6. Visit a claims’ handling office at least once a year to view claims handling and to develop a rapport with the adjuster. (workersxzcompxzkit)
7. Invite the adjuster to visit your facility to meet you, to learn job categories and physical demands of the jobs, and to observe or discuss transitional duty jobs.

Author: Robert Elliott, J.D.

Click on these links to try it for yourself.
Follow us on: www.Twitter.com/WorkersCompKit
WC Calculator: www.ReduceYourWorkersComp.com/calculator.php
TD Calculator: www.ReduceYourWorkersComp.com/transitional-duty-cost-calculator.php
WC 101: www.ReduceYourWorkersComp.com/workers_comp.php
Do not use this information without independent verification. All state laws are different. Consult with your corporate legal counsel before implementing any cost containment programs.