Loss Runs Two Line Claim Status – Make Sure To Request
When we perform Claims Loss Run Analyses for clients, including broker/agents, one of the main re-requested pieces of information to enhance the loss runs is the two line claim status.
Why would we as Workers Comp consultants want this what may seem innocuous information? A two line claim status may seem as if it does not cover the claim in full, and you would be correct in your thinking. The reason for the claim status is that it comes from the claim adjuster as their opinion on where the claim has been, is now, and what will likely happen in the future.
Two Line Claim Status – Communications Conduit
Even though just two lines may not be enough to clearly explain what is going on in most of the more complicated workers comp claims, the status can accomplish more than one might think, such as:
- Justification for reserves (Total Incurred)
- Medical status
- Work or Return to Work Status
- Future plans for handling
- TTD, TPD, PPD Status
- Litigation Status
- Closing status at the time the file closes
The list could go on and on for what is included in a two line claim status as part of the loss run.
Time and Money Saver
Time – The adjuster has been and always will be short on time. If a two line claim status happens to inform anyone looking at the loss run what is occurring in a claim, the adjuster may not have to field a question from the employer. The adjuster’s time per claim is limited. The status in a loss run may avoid having to answer an email or phone call from the insured or agent.
Money– If J&L is performing a loss run or any other type of workers comp audit, the claims status will keep the premium auditor, claims auditor, or any type of consultant hired by the employer or agent to review a claim more quickly. Having to dive into the notes of every claim becomes an arduous and expensive endeavor when a two line claim status would have possibly sufficed. Of course, more complicated or serious injury claims will still require a further review beyond the claims status.
Bottom Line on Claim Status
Agents/Brokers and employers can do themselves a big favor. A claims loss run should be more than just a pile of numbers. Online claims access, which I have been advising employers to use and insurance carriers to provide, will usually make the statuses at the fingertips of the employer or their agent.
Self-insureds should also be able to see a claim status at a glance, as it is their budgetary money being spent directly on claims.
