Wednesday, January 21, 2004

Pennsylvania Costs Per Claim Rose, But Remain Lower Than Median of Other States

A press release regarding the latest WCRI Study states that while costs per claim in Pennsylvania rose 8.5 per cent per year on average from 1999 to 2002, costs per claim remained 15 per cent lower than the median of other states surveyed. Attorney involvement was not identified as a cost driver as it has been in the past. Cost drivers were identified as double-digit increases in medical costs per claim and benefit delivery expenses. Also, Pennsylvania public officials, insurers and employers were commended on compliance with the 21 day rule.

The WCRI site also touts a study that found workers in Pennsylvania and Massachusetts are more likely to have satisfactory recoveries and a timely return to work, although this is consistent with findings that workers in these states have better access to satisfactory medical care.

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