Delayed claims reporting: the true cost to businesses and injured workers

Delayed claims. Workplace injuries that go unreported can keep employees on the sidelines — uncertain about treatment and unclear on what to expect under their state’s WC system. When workplace incidents do happen, prompt claim reporting is a key factor to ensuring injured employees receive the necessary care to feel supported in a successful return — and minimizing business impact.

Businesses appreciate the value of speed. Consider these strategies to accelerate your injury reporting and prevent delayed claims:

• Make the connection. Assigning a point of contact responsible for reporting helps employees know who to talk to.
• Early education. Familiarize employees with the injury reporting process early and often, so they know what to do if the time comes.
• Leverage technology. Your insurer may have apps, tools, or data enhancements to streamline your reporting to make it faster and easier.
• Encourage treatment. Discuss injuries in private, and don’t blame or belittle workers for their injuries. Stress your support for their recovery, and help them find the right provider. You don’t want employees hiding an injury.
• Measure. Rapid reporting has clear benefits — track successes and hold management accountable to reporting targets, with a recommended target of 80 percent of workers compensation claims reported within three days.

Get ahead of reporting lag, and you’re advocating for both your workers and your workers compensation outcomes.

Claim Reporting Lag Study