Workers' compensation introduction for physicians

Workers' compensation is an important part of the employment system in this country, and its development was born out of necessity. In 1991, over 93 million employees were covered by workers' compensation statutes and laws for work related injuries and conditions. The costs over the past 20 years have increased at an overwhelming rate. These increases are being met by various cost containment strategies that are not omnipresent in all jurisdictions but instead, are being accepted and structured independently by each jurisdiction. Legislative changes are expected in the next few years to deter rising costs. The emerging patterns of cost containment are: limited initial provider choice, limited provider change, medical fee schedule, hospital payment regulation, utilization review, and bill review. The medical evaluation of impairment is a process that is not precise; however, impressive gains have arisen in this area through the use of the AMA Guides and DSM-IV.