Key Strategies for Supporting Workers' Compensation Adjusters

Working as a workers' compensation adjuster has its challenges, with the responsibility of managing numerous files across different jurisdictions without dedicated support staff. Employers and stakeholders play a vital role in supporting these adjusters to ensure their success. By implementing specific actions, valuable assistance can be provided to significantly ease adjusters' workload and enhance their effectiveness.

To support workers' compensation adjusters effectively, consider the following key actions:

1. Provide Complete and Detailed Information: When submitting a new claim, ensure all fields on the injury form are accurately filled out. This includes relevant details such as social security numbers, birth dates, injury types, and dates of injury reporting. By providing comprehensive and timely information upfront, you enable adjusters to initiate efficient investigations.

2. Report Claims Promptly: Timely reporting of claims is essential to avoid pressuring adjusters and minimize errors or leakage. Submit the injury report as soon as possible to facilitate thorough investigations and enable accurate decision-making without delays or penalties.

3. Communicate Lost Time: Promptly inform adjusters if there is any lost time associated with the claim. This information is crucial as it allows adjusters to gather relevant medical records, assess compensability, and facilitate the implementation of work restrictions.

4. Respect the Adjuster's Role: While it's important to provide insights and relevant facts, remember that adjusters are trained professionals responsible for making determinations on compensability. Respect their expertise and decision-making authority to avoid potential fines and allow them to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.

5. Ensure Accessibility and Responsiveness: Be accessible and promptly respond to adjusters' inquiries. As an employer, your cooperation is crucial in providing information and supporting adjusters in their investigations. Share relevant medical information, provider details, initial diagnoses, and any other relevant documentation for effective claims handling.

By focusing on these key actions, employers can provide effective support to workers' compensation adjusters, ensuring smoother claims processing and improved outcomes.