The metrics in this report provide the information necessary to observe the possible effects of some of the 2007 legislation and related administrative changes to the New York workers' compensation system.  

The data that underlies some of the measure in this report are of sufficient maturity to begin to see changes in some of the metrics addressed by the statutory revisions and other changes. It is important to note, however, that it will still be several more years before the full impact of the reforms will be realized.

The regular monitoring of system performance helps policymakers and system stakeholders focus attention on the objectives that are being met, objectives that are not being met, and any unintended consequences that have emerged.

The major components of the 2007 legislation and related administrative changes are

• an increase in the maximum weekly benefit level, and then indexing of the maximum to two-thirds of the statewide average weekly wage (SAWW);
• caps on the duration of nonscheduled permanent partial disability benefits;
• creation and implementation of medical treatment guidelines;
• adoption of a pharmacy fee schedule and authorization of pharmacy networks;
• creation of networks for diagnostic services and thresholds for preauthorization; and
• administrative changes to increase speed of case resolution, known as the "rocket docket."

The study uses open and closed indemnity and medical-only claims with dates of injury from October 2004 through September 2013, with experience as of March 2014. The data are representative of the New York system.

Monitoring Trends in the New York Workers' Compensation System, 2005-2013. Carol A. Telles and Ramona P. Tanabe.  February 2016. WC-16-38.

Copyright: WCRI