MEC Connect

osts Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke are joined by Marianne Reed, Senior Claims Analyst at MEC, to discuss strategies for containing and mitigating costs in complex workers compensation claims. Marianne shares her expertise on identifying cost drivers, collaborating with stakeholders, and implementing targeted interventions to improve outcomes and reduce expenses. Discussion Points: Cost Drivers in Complex Claims Strategies for Cost Containment Successful Claim Intervention Case Study

Hosts Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke sit down with Dr. Fernando Branco, MEC's Chief Medical Officer, to discuss Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) and Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD). Dr. Branco shares his expertise on these challenging diagnoses, explaining how they can develop from seemingly minor injuries and the difficulties in accurately diagnosing and treating these conditions. Discussion Points: Sprains and Strains Progressing to CRPS/RSD Diagnosing CRPS/RSD Treating CRPS/RSD

This episode features guest Tina D'Andrea discussing the critical topic of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the workplace. With over 25 years of experience in workers compensation, Tina offers deep insights into the symptoms, diagnosis, and effective treatment of PTSD, particularly among professions with high public interaction like first responders, medical personnel, and teachers. Discussion Points: Understanding and Diagnosing PTSD Effective Treatments for PTSD Navigating PTSD in Workers Compensation

Hosts Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke are joined by Jeff Pack, a Medical Management Consultant at MEC, to discuss failed back syndrome. Jeff shares his experience dealing with complex back injury claims that often start as sprains or strains but can lead to multiple surgeries and the diagnosis of failed back syndrome. The episode explores common trends in these cases, potential interventions, and advice for managing claims involving failed back syndrome. Discussion Points: Sprains and Strains Leading to Excess Claims Common Trends and Potential Interventions Risks and Complications of Spinal Cord Stimulators

Hosts Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke welcome Dana Dorsey from MEC's Medical Management Unit to discuss sprains and strains. Dana, with her extensive background in field case management, dives into the definitions, treatments, and prevention of these injuries, highlighting how they can lead to complex claims if not managed properly from the outset. The episode focuses on practical advice for both employers and employees to handle and prevent these injuries effectively. Discussion Points: Defining Sprains and Strains: From Simple Injuries to Excess Claims: Strategies for Prevention and Early Intervention:

They explore key differences from catastrophic claims, focusing on disputed issues, medical care management, and disability assessment. Dan shares insights on the use of Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs) and emphasizes the value of involving opposing counsel. The episode highlights the need for a collaborative approach to improve outcomes for injured employees. Discussion Points: Investigating Migratory Claims Effective Use of Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs) Collaboration and Communication

In this episode of MEC Connect, hosts Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke sit down with MEC Senior Claims Analyst Kam Garrett to delve into the complex world of migratory claims. Kam shares a real-life example of a migratory claim that spanned over a decade and the challenges involved in handling such cases. They also discuss recurring trends, resources, and strategies for managing migratory claims effectively. Discussion Points: Real-Life Example: Challenges in Handling Migratory Claims: Impactful Resources at MEC:

Hosts Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke interview MEC’s Sherrie Murray about the challenges of "migratory claims"—claims involving injuries that start simple but spiral into complex cases involving endless treatments and prescriptions. In this episode, we explain MEC’s approach to these thorny claims, focusing on appropriateness of care, prescription issues, and ultimately settling cases. Discussion Points: Nature of Migratory Claims: Common types of injuries in migratory claims, particularly involving the spine. Challenges of Migratory Claims: The medical, psychological, and employment-related challenges faced in these claims. MEC's Approach to Migratory Claims:

In our final episode of Season 1, Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke speak with Geoff Jones, Senior Claims Attorney at Midwest Employers Casualty (MEC) about resolution of catastrophic claims. Topics covered include:

In episode 8, Kelly Loos, Senior National Catastrophic Claims Analyst at Midwest Employers Casualty (MEC), teams up with Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke for a conversation about claim management once an injured employee has achieved medical stability. Topics covered include:

In episode 7, Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke welcome back Phyllis Ramondetta, Senior National Catastrophic Medical Consultant at Midwest Employers Casualty (MEC). They will discuss the factors involved for an injured employee to achieve the goal of returning home after a catastrophic injury. Topics covered include:

In episode 6, Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke welcome Phyllis Ramondetta, Senior National Catastrophic Medical Consultant at Midwest Employers Casualty (MEC), for a discussion on what to expect after the acute phase of a catastrophic injury. Topics covered include:

In episode 5, Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke welcome back Midwest Employers Casualty’s (MEC) Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Fernando Branco. The three discuss the significant role Centers of Excellence (COE) play in the rehabilitation of catastrophically injured employees. Topics covered include:

In this installment of MEC Connect, Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke chat with Midwest Employers Casualty’s (MEC) Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Fernando Branco. Dr. Branco addresses the importance of proper medical treatment to achieve the best outcome for the injured employee. Topics discussed include: Learn more about CAT Claims here: https://mecasualty.com/claims-admin/cat-claim. For inquiries about MEC Connect, email MECConnect@mecasualty.com.

In Episode 3, Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke welcome Dan Dalton Chief Claims and Regulatory Counsel at Midwest Employers Casualty (MEC). Dan addresses the benefits of having a lawyer involved in catastrophic (CAT) claim investigations. Topics covered include: Learn more about CAT Claims here: https://mecasualty.com/claims-admin/cat-claim. For inquiries about MEC Connect, email MECConnect@mecasualty.com

Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke welcome back Courtney Waltz, Senior National Catastrophic Claim Analyst at Midwest Employers Casualty (MEC), to continue their discussion about MEC’s unique approach to CAT claims management. Topics covered include: Learn more about CAT Claims here: https://mecasualty.com/claims-admin/cat-claim. For inquiries about MEC Connect, email MECConnect@mecasualty.com.

Welcome to the first episode of MEC Connect! Special guest Courtney Waltz, Senior National Catastrophic Claim Analyst at Midwest Employers Casualty (MEC), joins cohosts Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke for the first in a series of discussions about catastrophic (CAT) workers’ compensation claims. Topics covered include: · How the MEC dedicated CAT Claims team defines CAT claims · Who makes up the CAT Claims team · The initial reporting process for these types of claims · Why immediate action for CAT claims is critical to helping achieve better results Learn more about CAT Claims here: https://mecasualty.com/claims-admin/cat-claim. For inquiries about MEC Connect, email MECConnect@mecasualty.com.

Welcome to MEC Connect! We’re excited about the launch of our new podcast. Check out the trailer to get a sneak peek on what you can expect in Season 1!