Research

This study tracks changes in the composition of the Qualified Medical Evaluator (QME) population in California workers’ compensation in terms of medical specialty representation and geographic availability, comparing data on medical providers certified as QMEs in 2012 and in 2017. The study also uses 2007 – June 2017 claims data to examine changes in the level of services rendered by evaluators, the mix of services, average payments for all medical-legal services and for specific levels of service, and the proportion of evaluations performed by AMEs vs. QMEs.

CWCIs analysis of the prevalence and cost of prescription drugs within approved Workers’ Compensation Medicare Set-Aside Arrangements.

An interactive application based on updated IRIS data on claims from the last decade (AY 2007 through 2016) so that users can compare results from each region to statewide results on key metrics, compare results between different regions, and identify regional and statewide trends that have developed.

CWCI members can now access a new interactive application that shows average paid indemnity and medical losses on claims from AY 2005 through the end of AY 2016 at nine levels of development (with payments valued through December 2016). The online tool gives Institute members the ability to view results for indemnity claims or for all claims, subset the data by industry and region, and segment the medical payment data into medical treatment, pharmacy & DME, medical-legal services & medical cost containment expenses.

An analysis of the volume and outcomes of Independent Medical Reviews based on determination letters issued from January 2014 through June 2017.

A CWCI analysis of the prevalence, volume and strength of opioid prescriptions in California work injury lost-time claims that involve a mental health component.