As we end another year and get ready for 2016, we thought it would be helpful to review a few pro-active steps employers can take in Georgia to reduce the cost of your workers’ comp claims:

1. The post offer medical questionnaire: This form is completed after you offer an employee a job but before they begin the job. Many people think that because there is no longer the Subsequent Trust Injury Trust Fund available, the questionnaire has lost value. It has not. The questionnaire can be important in determining if the employee is physically capable of doing the job he or she was hired for and it can be used as part of your investigation into whether a reported accident (months or even years later) is causally connected to the job or pre-existing. We have examples of the questionnaire which you can use “as is” or tailor to your needs. This form can simply be inserted as part of your new hire package and we can advise you on how to use it to comply with any legal requirements. It is quick and easy.

2. Drug testing: Being certified as a Drug Free Workplace gives you a potential discount on workers’ comp premiums. Even if you are not certified, drug testing after an accident gives you the opportunity to potentially deny a claim that would otherwise be compensable. What is crucial is having a supervisor attend the first post-accident appointment with the employee to make sure the collection of the sample is done immediately. Beyond drug testing, having a supervisor present is another way to both assist the employee and also collect information from the doctor. It also allows you, as the employer, to communicate to the doctor about such matters as the availability of light duty work.

3. Panel of Physicians: This is a good time of year to check your panel of six doctors to make sure there are actually six, they are all still in practice in Georgia and willing to accept workers’ comp patients, there is at least one orthopedic surgeon and that there are no more than two industrial clinics. At no charge, we can provide recommendations for doctors to put on your panel. We also still have available copies of the “Workers’ Compensation Doctors in Georgia” book at no cost to you. You can find doctors in every part of the state for every specialty. And if you want to know our thoughts about certain doctors, just call or email.

As I do every year in our December issue, I want to wish you a safe and joyous holiday season. We are very fortunate to work with so many fantastic clients. However, this year I want to especially recognize the people I work with each day, the attorneys and staff of KDA. You know how valuable they are and I am proud of each of them and their tremendous contributions to our success: Adriana, Alissa, Christy, Iwona, Jamilah, Jennifer, Molly, Pam, Samantha, Taylor, Vanessa, Vince, and Will.

Happy Holidays!

-Ken