Five Things You May Not Know About Your Case Manager
3 MIN READ
What I enjoy most about my job is sharing the important work of those whom I consider to be the life-changing forces of workers’ comp: nurse case managers. Still, it can be a challenge to tell these stories because case managers aren’t ones to brag about the incredible work they do. I’ve even found most nurses I know outside the industry don’t know what a case manager does. Considering there are more than 3 million nurses working in every facet of health care in the United States, it’s no surprise that this unique specialty isn’t as well-known as say, ER nursing.
How Can You Ensure Your UR Vendor is the Hiring the Right Physicians?
1 MIN READ
The success of a utilization review organization depends on the quality of its physician network. UR physicians impact all stakeholders on a workers' compensation claim when they render a determination of medical necessity.
Prescription and Private Label Topical Trends in 2018
1 MIN READ
Topicals represent 5.1% of total prescriptions and 14% of total drug cost, and are being prescribed as an alternative to some oral medications.
Five Initial Evaluation Issues That May Delay Return to Work
You only get one chance to make a first impression. This common phrase is especially true in establishing a positive relationship between an injured employee and the treating physician in a workers' compensation case.
High Impact Drug Class Trends in 2018
1 MIN READ
Compared with opioids, other high impact drug classes like topicals, compound kits, combo packs, and specialty medications, represent proportionately low volume. However, they can be associated with exponentially significant costs. Recognizing the trends related to such cost drivers can help promote clinically-appropriate savings.
Beyond the Status Quo
5 MIN READ
We have been conditioned to expect that “best” equates to positive, desired results. Whether in sports, business or healthcare – we strive beyond good or better and desire the “best.” But implementing accepted status quo best practices doesn’t guarantee optimum results. History is scattered with epic examples of “best” induced stagnation or worse outcomes.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Trends in 2018
1 MIN READ
Opioid dependence and abuse are prevalent and continue to be a concern in our society and the workers’ compensation population. Medication-assisted treatment using methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone along with counseling and other support is one of the options for managing opioid use disorder. Analyzing the trends within our data related to these types of medications can provide valuable additional insight into the prevalence of evidence-based and guideline-supported approaches related to overall opioid strategy.