The Delaware/Pennsylvania Workers Compensation Rating Bureau held their annual Symposium on April 23rd, drawing over 200 insurance executives, underwriters and actuaries, as well as industry experts to Philadelphia for up-to-the minute research and data insights.

The conference featured multiple presentations based on carrier reported data as benchmarked against other states on claim frequency, legislative updates, and an expert Medical Experience Panel featuring Healthesystems VP of Industry and State Affairs, Sandy Shtab.

Shtab shared perspectives on current and future medical trends impacting the workers' compensation industry, including automation in the healthcare space, claim coordination, patient advocacy, self-service tools and how to foster a more connected experience for the claims professional and the injured worker.

The panel explored how these trends are impacting claim outcomes, medical severity, litigation costs and the injured worker experience. Panelists shared data-driven observations and practical perspectives on care patterns, recovery timing, and system friction, with an emphasis on coordination of care and early, appropriate intervention. The session generated strong engagement and thoughtful dialogue around how payers, providers, and service partners can influence better outcomes while managing cost and complexity.