Emerging Trends in Workers Compensation

The elephant in the room in Workers Compensation Costs is healthcare's rising costs. The two snakes hiding under the bed are aging in the workplace and obesity. Consider the following:

• In 1986 Medical costs represented 45% of Workers Compensation claims. It is projected that by 2016 Medical costs will represent 70% of claims. Remember health care costs are borne by the employer through premiums and experience mods.
• Workers over 65 median lost time is 50% more than younger workers.
• Indemnity costs are 11 times higher for obese workers than healthy weight workers.