On June 24th, Healthesystems attended the Washington’s Workers' Compensation Advisory Committee’s (WCAC) quarterly meeting, which focused on the rise in long-term disability claims.

Factors contributing to long-term disability claims include changes to Independent Medical Exam (IME) policies, evolving injury types, and healthcare delays.

Since 2023, injured workers have been allowed to record IMEs, disrupting scheduling and reducing exam-completed rates. In response, the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) launched a pilot in March using a secure third-party recording service. The pilot ends in August, after which L&I will decide whether to adopt it permanently or pursue formal rulemaking.

PTSD claims also remain open longer. Since 2018, 723 claims have been filed, with 80% accepted. Although claims peaked in 2022, they are now declining. Clinical guidelines are expected this fall, with a legislative report in July.

Staffing shortages and healthcare delays continue to challenge the system. A stakeholder suggested easing prior authorization for most services, like private insurers. L&I noted that while private insurers are suggesting changes, no official modifications to prior authorization have been implemented yet and L&I will continue to observe these developments.

By actively engaging in WCAC meetings, it is possible to gain early insights into regulatory shifts and policy innovations that could shape national trends.