Healthesystems recently attended the Workers’ Compensation Research Institute’s (WCRI) Issues & Research Conference in Boston to capture key insights, many of which came from an employer panel discussed several operational challenges facing workers’ compensation programs, including access to care, early intervention practices, and claims culture and communication.

From an access to care standpoint, employers pointed to provider shortages, long wait times, and specialty backlogs across both urban and rural markets, noting that access issues often hinge on provider participation in workers’ compensation networks under current reimbursement structures.

Panelists also emphasized operational strategies such as prompt injury reporting, early engagement by adjusters and case managers, and consistent communication throughout the claim. Employers noted these practices support smoother claim progression and that breakdowns in communication frequently coincide with increased attorney involvement.