HUMAN RESOURCES – Are you aware of the impact that WorkSafeBC claims have on your bottom line? It has been our direct experience that missing the opportunity to make conscious decisions surrounding WorkSafeBC claims is impacting employers’ bottom line. There are three significant decisions that commonly occur during the claims process that employers should be keenly aware of:
1. The claims acceptance decision determines whether a claim for compensation is allowed. Once a claim is accepted costs start to accumulate, although this decision can be disputed. Some of the issues employers may dispute are: whether or not the injury was at work; the resulting length of the disability; or if the injury is permanent or not.
2. At 10-weeks there is a wage rate review and cost relief decision that determines the long-term wage rate that will apply to all future wage-replacement benefits on the claim. If you believe the amount determined by the long-term wage rate assessment is incorrect, you have the right to request a review. Ensuring the long-term wage rate is accurately assessed can significantly reduce the high costs associated with long recovery injuries.
3. The pension cost relief decision is determined based on the current loss of functioning and the potential earnings that will be lost in the future due to disability. Requesting a review of the pension decision can relieve a significant component of claims costs. For example, it may be found that there is evidence of a pre-existing underlying condition that serves to enhance the severity of the disability.
It has been our experience that employers have been missing opportunities to significantly reduce claims costs by simply not taking opportunities to request a review of WorkSafeBC decisions and not understanding the complexities of the Workers’ Compensation System. Either way, we can help to lessen the impact WorkSafeBC claims have on your bottom line.
Typically, an appeal against an employee’s claim causes dissension in the workplace when done incorrectly. Therefore, we recommend a strategic step-wise process when situations arise where there is an opportunity to appeal.
When addressing the above matters it is important to use an approach that maintains your company culture and entrenches a positive communication platform. This will foster improvement in communication and collaboration within your team. For support for appealing your WorkSafeBC claims or to register for our Return-to-Work Skills Workshop (April 27th, 2018, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm, $260), contact us at info@diversifiedrehab.ca.
