February 3, 2004 CareWorks to pilot injury management program to help control back injuries

Lumbosacral sprains – commonly known as low back injuries – are the most prominent and costly workplace injuries. Identifying common causes and specifically addressing these types of injuries can result in long-term savings.

Employers are aware of the prevalence and difficulty in managing low back injuries. Lumbosacral sprains are one of the most challenging diagnoses to medically manage through to long-term successful return to work.

An initial treating provider may diagnose an injured worker with a soft tissue low back sprain at onset based on the accepted method of injury and physical examination.

These diagnoses may be accurate, yet many times the injuries are far more serious in nature and lead to the eventual discovery of a more complicated condition, such as a herniated disk.

In turn, this herniated disk diagnosis becomes much more costly over time when factoring in medical costs, payment of lost time benefits and the negative impact on an employer’s risk.

CareWorks is preparing to roll out a pilot program for interested employers where employees can receive additional educational materials that specifically address low back injuries.

Employers who are experiencing a high volume of lumbosacral sprains (ICD Code 846.0) will be identified by CareWorks. Then, we will work with these customers to identify and analyze contributing factors to these injuries. The goal is to avoid complications that could result in significant additional lost time.

For example, an employer with a high incidence of lumbosacral sprain claims may want to be alerted every time that the ICD-9 code 846.0 is applied to the lower back. By providing an opportunity for early intervention, CareWorks may help you avoid costs that could occur if a hidden injury is left unmanaged. The pilot program will include a three-step process based on solid communication:

CareWorks will send injured workers and employers an initial letter regarding the filing of a new low back injury claim, along with a pamphlet that discusses how best to manage this type of injury (including diagnosis, treatment and recovery).

Additional follow-up communication and education with the injured worker and employer will help prevent further complications and ensure progress is being made toward a successful return-to-work.

CareWorks will also be printing “Low Back Injury Calendars” targeted to those employers who are seeing a high rate of back injury claims. This wall calendar will contain valuable information to post in your workplace, helping everyone in your organization better understand the importance of managing back injuries. The pilot program is scheduled to begin in the first quarter of this year. To volunteer as a pilot participant, contact your individual CareWorks Account Executive or a member of our Quality Assurance Department.