Dealing with a workers’ compensation claims is complicated, but critical when work causes a legitimate injury, illness, or disease. Employers need to ensure that workers’ comp claims are processed safely and efficiently. Legal transcription services are available for attorneys and physicians involved in process for documenting primary reports of injury, casualty and liability status reports, financial reports, disability claims, transmittal letters, verification reports, general correspondence, and follow-up notes. Reporting workers’ compensation claims quickly is a best practice that promotes both employee and employer wellbeing. Need to Avoid Delays in Reporting Workers’ Compensation Claims Delays in reporting workers compensation claims can have many detrimental effects. •
Increases claim costs: Acadia Insurance points out that the average cost of a claim that is reported late is higher due to the following reasons: -
Delay in treatment could worsen the employee’s condition and slow down recovery time, preventing return to work and thereby affecting business productivity.
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The investigation of the claim by the insurance company may be impeded as time passes. Witnesses may no longer be available or key evidence may be lost, making it difficult for the insurer to determine compensability.
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Each state has rules on the time limit for reporting workers’ comp claims. Claims submitted after the specified time period may be denied. Many states impose fines if an insured reports a claim late or fails to report a claim. According to insurance industry standards, a claim should be reported within the first 24 hours of occurrence.
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Reporting delays can affect the ability to reject a claim due to the worker being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
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Late notice can limit the benefits of using managed care initiatives to effectively manage the care of the worker.
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Can affect employee-employer relations: Delay in reporting workers’ comp claim may give employees the impression that the employer is not truly invested in their health and wellbeing. This can lead to loss of trust. Employees handling the work of the injured worker may be disgruntled when they learn that the co-worker’s claim submission was delayed. Moreover, when claims are not reported promptly, it will affect the employee’s interest in returning to work.
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