A CWCI Research Update report uses IRIS data on insured and self-insured indemnity claims from AY 2016 – AY 2025 to provide an updated view of California WC medical and indemnity loss trends before, during, and after the pandemic.  The report examines total paid losses and breaks down medical and indemnity losses at 7 levels of development, then examines 24-month loss trends by industry and region. The findings indicate that although the pandemic temporarily altered the timing and mix of claim payments, it did not fundamentally change the long-term, upward trajectory of loss costs.  The data show that medical losses continued their long-term upward trend despite the pandemic-related fluctuations and have increased sharply at the early development stages in the post-pandemic era. In contrast, indemnity losses increased more consistently, influenced in part by statutory benefit adjustments and changes in disability duration. The industry and regional results further demonstrate that the drivers of loss costs are not uniform, and that wages and disability duration have a major influence on indemnity costs, while injury severity, treatment patterns, OMFS adjustments, med-legal activity, and access to care all contribute to medical cost differences.  The full report is free to members and subscribers by calling 510-251-9470, others may purchase a copy for $21.