I don’t usually throw darts in a suit and tie… but when I do, I aim for the bullseye 😄
And honestly? That moment reminded me of how we approach safety training.
You can’t just hope people get it. You have to be intentional. Precise. Focused.
In other words… you have to hit the mark.
At Highview, we work with businesses where claims drop not because they check a training box – but because they actually teach people something useful.
✔ Interactive training > boring PowerPoints
✔ Refreshers matter (people forget!)
✔ Everyone needs it: temps, new hires, and seasoned pros
We try to bring that same mindset into how we train and lead internally too.
Because whether it's safety protocols or dart games, engagement is everything.
Want fewer claims? Start with training that sticks.
News & Insights 🗞️
🏥 Inflation Hits Workers’ Comp Medical Costs
The Workers Compensation Research Institute (WCRI) released its 2025 Medical Price Index, revealing wide variation in medical costs across states, ranging from 33% below to 172% above the 36-state median in 2024. Fee schedule presence significantly controlled costs in some states
The Travelers Companies analyzed over 2.6 million claims and found that although injury frequency is down, injury severity is rising. This is driven by longer recoveries among older workers (60+ averaging 97 days out) and new hires accounting for 36% of claims
Will my workers' compensation claim cover all medical expenses?
Workers' compensation typically covers medical expenses related to your workplace injury, including doctor visits, surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, and medications. However, keep these key points in mind:
Covered Expenses
As long as the treatment is deemed necessary for your recovery and directly linked to your injury, it should be covered under workers' compensation.
Out-of-pocket Costs
Some treatments or medications may not be fully covered, depending on your workers' compensation policy and state regulations. Alternative therapies or procedures outside your prescribed care may not be included. If you pay for treatment out of pocket, keep your receipts and submit them to your adjuster for potential reimbursement.
Pre-approval Requirements
Some treatments require prior approval from workers' compensation before they are covered. Check with your insurer or claims adjuster to avoid unexpected expenses.
If you face any out-of-pocket costs related to your injury, reach out to your workers' compensation insurer for clarification on coverage and reimbursement options.
Some Humor to Insure Your Day! 😆
Satmar Expo 🎟️
Workplace Safety Spotlight 🔦
Understanding Preexisting Injuries and Their Impact on Workers’ Compensation Claims
Workers' compensation claims can become more complex when a preexisting injury or condition is involved. Understanding how preexisting conditions are treated within workers' compensation is essential for both employers and employees. This newsletter explores the impact of preexisting injuries on claims, as well as the legal and financial implications for businesses and workers alike.
What Are Preexisting Injuries?
Preexisting injuries or conditions refer to medical issues that existed before a worker’s current job-related injury. These can include chronic conditions (such as arthritis or back pain), past injuries (like a previous sprain or fracture), or long-standing health issues (such as diabetes or heart disease). Preexisting injuries can complicate workers' compensation claims by making it more difficult to differentiate between a new workplace injury and an existing health condition.
How Preexisting Injuries Impact Workers’ Compensation Claims When an employee sustains a new injury at work, workers’ compensation typically covers medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation. However, the presence of a preexisting condition can affect the claim in several ways:
Apportionment of Liability:
Determining how much of the injury is attributable to the workplace accident versus the preexisting condition can be legally complex. Some states allow for apportionment, meaning the workers' compensation insurer may only be responsible for the portion of the injury directly related to the workplace event.
Example: If an employee with a preexisting back condition aggravates the injury at work, the insurer may cover only the exacerbation, not the underlying condition.
The "Coming and Going" Rule:
This rule determines whether an injury sustained while commuting to or from work is compensable. If a preexisting condition contributed to an injury during a commute, the claim may become more complicated.
Proving Causation:
Employees must demonstrate that their workplace injury significantly contributed to the worsening of their preexisting condition. This often requires clear medical evidence and, in some cases, expert testimony.
Permanent Disability Claims:
If an employee has an existing disability and suffers a workplace injury that worsens their condition, they may be entitled to permanent disability benefits. However, the extent of these benefits may be influenced by the preexisting condition, as insurers may argue that the majority of the disability is due to the prior injury.
Conclusion: Navigating the Complexity of Preexisting Injuries in Workers’ Compensation
Managing workers’ compensation claims involving preexisting injuries requires a solid understanding of legal requirements and best practices. By staying informed, employers can better navigate claims, protect employees' well-being, and mitigate financial risks.
We specialize in workers' compensation claims management and legal compliance. If you have questions about preexisting injuries and their impact on claims, we are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about best practices and how we can support your business.
