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Labor Day Message: Protecting Ohio's Workforce By Jim Conrad This year marks the 90th anniversary of workers' compensation in Ohio. Since 1912, more than 25 million claims have been filed and more than $34 billion in benefits have been paid to Ohioans injured on the job. More importantly, Ohio's employers and working families have had the protection of the safety net we call workers' comp. As we honor America's workforce this Labor Day weekend, all Ohioans should know that if they fall to injury or disease at work, the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation will be there to help them get back on their feet. Workers' compensation is often called one of the greatest compromises between labor and industry. In Ohio, the movement was lead by William Greene, an Ohio senator and national labor leader who worked tirelessly with all parties. He brought about the beginnings of a system where employers paid insurance premiums to provide medical benefits and reasonable lost wages to workers who became injured on the job. At the same time, the system protected employers from costly legal battles that would benefit no one, and potentially lead to the demise of the business and its jobs. While those principles have been debated for almost 100 years, BWC has continued to carry on its mission. Today, the health of the system has been portrayed in the media by the savings that employers have realized. While those savings have been used to purchase health care, expand the economy and produce thousands of jobs, what has been lost is the story of the injured workers. It begins with BWC's Pledge of Service, which is sent to every Ohio injured worker. Our pledge outlines their most important rights under the workers' comp system, and sets the standard for the high level of customer service and medical care they deserve and should expect. But what does the pledge really mean? It means we are committed to their quick recovery. We have reduced delays by as much as 80 percent, ensuring quality treatment is more quickly available to workers. When claims are filed, a personal letter is sent to injured workers. Attached to the letter is an identification card with vital information about their claim, most importantly the name and phone number of their BWC representative who will answer their questions and help get them back on their feet. Ohio has been recognized as a national leader in our ability to improve the speed and quality of medical care to injured workers. For some injuries, we have eliminated the need for prior authorization for a doctor to begin treatment. We have focused intensely on efforts to help the more severely injured workers return to work, and closely tied the payment of managed care organizations to quality care and customer service. Most importantly, Ohioans tell us our efforts are paying off. In a recent survey, four out of every five injured workers and employers indicate they are satisfied or very satisfied with their treatment and service. Personally, I won't be satisfied until that number is five out of five. On this Labor Day, Ohio's workforce can be assured the Bureau of Workers' Compensation is here to serve them 365 days a year.
James Conrad is the Administrator/CEO of The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation |
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