The longer an injured employee is away from work, the higher the employer’s workers’ compensation costs are and the worse the impact of the injury is on their employee. Workers’ compensation is not just a bottom line issue. It is also a major employee relations issue. Human resource managers are often responsible for managing workers’ compensation claim cost and the related concerns. The stage is set for lengthy and unnecessary lost time way before any injury occurs. Turnover is costly and often is the result of medically unnecessary lost time following a job related illness or injury. An injured employee, who continues to work while they recover, even with restrictions, continues to contribute to the success of the business. Production levels and quality standards are maintained. More importantly, workers’ compensation costs are significantly reduced and experienced employees are retained. “Making Return to Work – Work for You and Your Employees” is designed to provide information and tools for HR Mangers to help avoid some of the pitfalls and address some of the difficulties often faced by employers in getting their employees back to work. Learn what’s changing in the workers’ compensation system and how your company may be able to benefit.
About Our Speaker:
Pat Crawford is the Employer Education Coordinator for the Texas Department of Insurance/Division of Workers’ Compensation. Prior to joining the Division, she was a Workers’ Compensation Specialist and HR Manager for Levi Strauss & Co. She managed Human Resources in manufacturing and distribution facilities and supervised other HR managers. She monitored and managed workers’ compensation claims and issues, including legislative and regulatory matters in 13 states. She served on the Board of Directors for the Texas Workers’ Compensation Insurance Fund (Texas Mutual Insurance) for nine (9) years. Her extensive Human Resource background and understanding of workers’ compensation has made her a valuable participant on numerous committees addressing workers’ compensation and labor concerns across the country. Her business background has provided “hands on” experience in dealing with the difficulties often faced by employers in controlling workers’ compensation costs and getting injured workers back into a productive work environment.
