Collaborate with Adjusters for Better Results

Working with adjusters can be very rewarding when, as an insured employer, you learn to collaborate with the adjusters for better results. Your bottom line can only strengthen as claims are handled more effectively with your regular input and partnership.

 

Adjusters request what seems like a lot of information, particularly when a claim is new. Wage statements, details surrounding the injury or accident investigation done by your company, details from the injured employee’s immediate supervisor and the person who first became aware of the injury as well as any witnesses are just a start. The adjuster will conduct an investigation beyond these areas and it’s important to supply the requested information promptly. Much work, done behind the scenes, also culminates in the adjuster’s assessment of whether a claim is compensable. 

 

Your input is invaluable. Did you or someone at your company observe the employee twist a knee at a softball game on Sunday night only to find out the injury reported Monday morning as a work-related injury? Speak up and let the adjuster know so that she knows how to tailor the investigation. Nobody knows your employees better than you so share information pertinent to a claim investigation. The quicker a compensability decision is made, the quicker benefits will commence for the injured worker. 

 

Keep in touch with the adjuster after your initial conversations so you have an understanding of the stages involved leading to claim closure. Learn how you can contribute whether by sharing new information or by accommodating an injured worker with restrictions as soon as possible to contain claim costs. 

Consider inviting the adjuster, if the same person handles many of your claims, to tour your premises for a clearer understanding of the work performed. This may help the adjuster better understand how injuries occur and to be a part of the team including your agent, loss control representative and others. Encourage your employees charged with claim reporting or monitoring responsibilities to develop a rapport with the adjuster.  (workersxzcompxzkit)

 

Developing a professional relationship with the workers’ compensation adjuster opens the lines of communication and leads to improved claim handling. Chances are by developing that relationship, the adjuster becomes more engaged in your files, share your interest in reaching a positive, cost effective outcome for all involved including the injured employee.