DOL website has new section on worker misclassification
The DOL has compiled information on worker misclassification on a new section of its website.
Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangement (WCMSA) “Re- Review” process
In Calendar year 2017, CMS expects to update its existing re-review process to address situations where CMS has provided an approved amount, but settlement has not occurred and the medical care that supported the approved amount has changed substantially.
Workplace deaths up in 2015
According to the Department of Labor, 4,836 fatal work injuries were recorded in 2015, a slight increase from the 4,821 fatal injuries in 2014. 2,054 of these involved transportation incidents, with roadway incidents accounting for 26 percent of all fatal work injuries. Almost half of these fatalities involved some kind of tractor-trailer truck. The information includes U.S. workplace deaths resulting from traumatic events but does not include workers who die from long-term exposure to workplace hazards, such as toxic chemicals.
MSD checklists by industry
The Safety & Health Assessment & Research for Prevention Program at the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries has released six industry-specific checklists and summary reports aimed at helping employers identify risk factors that may contribute to work-related musculoskeletal disorders. The checklists are available for agriculture, construction, healthcare, manufacturing, services, and wholesale and retail trade.
US tops lists for days lost and highest costs of sleepy workers
Lack of sleep among U.S. workers results in an increased risk of death and the loss of 1.2 million working days per year, and costs the economy up to $411 billion annually, according to a new report from RAND Europe. Researchers said workers who increase their sleep duration to between six hours and seven hours per night could bring an additional $226.4 billion to the economy. The researchers recommended that employers understand the importance of sleep and promote it, create brighter workplaces, provide settings for naps, and discourage lengthy use of electronic devices after work.
FMCSA to establish database of CMV drivers who fail drug, alcohol tests
Commercial motor vehicle drivers who fail a drug and alcohol test will be listed on a national clearinghouse to be created by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), according to a final rule published Dec. 5. Motor carriers will need to search the system for information related to current and prospective employees who might have unresolved violations that prohibit them from driving. Employers and medical review officers also will be required to report information about drivers who test positive for drugs or alcohol, refuse to comply with drug and alcohol testing, or participate in the return-to-duty drug and alcohol rehabilitation process.
FMCSA to develop minimum training standards for entry-level CMV drivers
Entry-level commercial truck and bus drivers seeking a commercial driver’s license or select endorsements will soon face national minimum training requirements under a final rule. The new rule will apply to first-time CDL applicants; drivers seeking to upgrade their CDL to another classification; and drivers seeking an endorsement for hazardous materials, passenger or school bus operations for the first time.
Workplace weight loss programs lower health care costs, improve quality of life: study
People who participate in a weight management program at work experience lower health care costs and better quality of life, according to a study from the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Researchers examined data on 1,500 University of Minnesota workers who attended group meetings about weight management over a three-year period. Participants typically were older women who had a higher body mass index and were more likely to have a chronic disease. The average annual savings in health care costs was $876 per participant.
State News
California
Starting July 1, doctors who wish to repeatedly prescribe opioids to injured workers will have to subject the claim to a review process, according to an overview of the proposed workers’ compensation prescription drug formulary set to go into effect next summer.
Illinois
A new rule requiring some Illinois employers to provide collateral for large-deductible workers compensation policies was approved. The rule implements Senate Bill 1805/Public Act 099-0369.
Massachusetts
A new pilot program is aimed at helping injured workers get pain management treatment after settling workers’ compensation claim. The voluntary program is designed for individuals with settled cases, who are still being treated with opioids, but the insurance company seeks to stop payment for continued use of opioids.
New York
New health insurance reforms that went into effect Jan.1 and target the heroin and opioid epidemic require small and large group health plans, and individual plans, to cover inpatient treatment for New Yorkers suffering from opioid addiction.
For Cutting-Edge Strategies on Managing Risks and slashing Insurance Costs visit www.PremiumReductionCenter.com