Partnering with Workers’ Compensation Insurers to Reach Small Enterprises in Need of Health Promotion and Health Protection

CME/MOC: 1.5
TRACK: Management and Administration in OEM

Karen Curran, Pinnacol Assurance, Denver, CO
Lee S. Newman, MD, FACOEM, Center for Worker Health and Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, Denver, CO
Natalie Schwatka, PhD, Center for Health, Work & Environment, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, CO
Erin Shore, MPH, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO

The literature supplies evidence on the impact of employee health on productivity and traditional health care costs, but does it also impact workers’ compensation costs and claims? Additionally, health promotion programs may succeed in mid- to large-size companies, but what can be done to reach the small enterprises where the majority of Americans work? This session will examine the nexus of workers’ compensation, health promotion, and small businesses by presenting three studies that illustrate innovative approaches. Topics will include the impetuous for promoting worker well-being from the perspective of Pinnacol Assurance, Colorado’s major workers’ compensation carrier and the interaction between work organization, workers’ personal health, and workers’ compensation claims and costs. Data from a successful dissemination program for small businesses that applies Total Worker Health® principles “scaled” to improve adoption and success will be discussed.