Quote of the day
"Think of it like squeezing a balloon; when you pinch one end, it expands on the other. Doctors are, for the most part, not following evidence-based treatment protocol as set forth by the [ACOEM] ... And by not doing so, we are witnessing medical treatment plans that are misdirected and unnecessary, coupled with increased levels of treatment, additional testing and the high cost of doctors to run those tests."
Frank Pennachio, CWCA
Expert: Finding the Right Rx for Your Workers’ Comp Program
With increased attention to safety causing a decline in the number of workplace accidents, which has resulted in fewer claims and lower rates, why has the cost of the claims risen dramatically over the years? By Frank Pennachio, Occupational Hazards
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Pennsylvania Prison Worker Struggles After Assault
A Bucks County, Pa., prison case manager says she is still battling migraines and the county over her treatment and return to work after a prisoner threw a weighted tape dispenser at her face. The victim’s husband, who also works at the prison, said the state’s workers’ comp law does not allow some prison and law enforcement workers to miss work due to post-traumatic stress. By Scott Kraus, Allentown Morning Call
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Charlotte Cops Want Workers’ Comp Change
Some injured North Carolina police officers say they are not getting what they deserve when filing for workers’ compensation from the state. The “April 5 Organization,” which was formed in response to the shooting of a former officer, is calling for change. News14 Carolina (Raleigh) [with video, photo] Go to the Full Story…
Simple Math on Claim Duration
The longer an injured worker’s claim lasts, the more money it costs the provincial Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission, and employers. So, on the heels of 64 recommendations provided by an independent review panel on New Brunswick’s workers’ comp system, the commission is looking for ways to improve access to health care. By Michelle Porter, New Brunswick Business Journal
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Manitoba WCB Report May Trigger Changes to Act
Manitoba’s government is considering changes to the provincial Workers Compensation Act after receiving a report from its Workers Compensation Board about adding industries to the system. An official with the WCB says it supports broadening the system because Manitoba currently has the lowest level of coverage in Canada. By Shane Gibson, Portage Daily Graphic (Portage la Prairie, Manitoba)
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Australia Rail Workers Lacked Breaks Before Colleagues Were Killed
An independent report finds that three Queensland Rail workers, a resurfacing supervisor and two operator maintainers, did not get their required 10-hour breaks prior to the accidental deaths of two colleagues who were on a systems maintenance crew. By AAP via the Age (Melbourne)
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