This is the fifth annual report by the Workers Compensation Research Institute (WCRI), after the implementation of the statutory changes in New York, to regularly assess the performance of the workers’ compensation system. This regular monitoring provides a foundation for evaluating the effect of the statutory changes to determine whether the changes were successful in their goals and to identify if any unintended consequences were observed.  

The major components of the 2007 statutory changes were:

• an increase in the maximum weekly benefit;
• caps on permanent partial disability duration;
• medical treatment guidelines to be created and implemented:
• adoption of a pharmacy fee schedule;
• creation of networks for diagnostic services, and thresholds for preauthorization; and 
• administrative changes to increase speed of case resolution

WCRI’s Detailed Benchmark/Evaluation (DBE) database was used in the study. Analyses were performed using open and closed indemnity and medical-only claims with a date of injury from October 2003 through September 2009, with experience as of March 2010. The data are representative of the New York system, including private insurers, self-insured employers, and the state insurance fund.   

Monitoring the Impact of the 2007 Reforms in New York.  Carol A. Telles, Ramona P. Tanabe. October 2012. WC-12-22.

Copyright: WCRI