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: Dr. Branco explains that it's common for minor injuries like sprains and strains to progress into CRPS or RSD, especially in the excess claim ..read more

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: Tina defines PTSD and outlines its common symptoms, such as intrusive thoughts and hypervigilance. She elaborates on the diagnosis process, highlighti ..read more

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: 1.       Sprains and Strains Leading to Excess Claims: Jeff explains how many back injury claims that ..read more

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: Dana explains the differences between sprains, which involve ligaments, and ..read more

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: Dan explains the key differences between migratory claims and catastrophic claims, highlighting the importance of identifying disputed issues, managing medical care, and ad ..read more

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: Kam provides a detailed example of a migratory claim that took almost 13 years to resolve, emphasizing the persistence required in managing such case ..read more

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-relate ..read more

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: If and when a catastrophic claim can be settled. Situations where a settlement is not possible or recommended.   Considerations for indemnity or medical only settlements. The people involved in resolution of a catastrophic claim. How Medicare Set-Aside trusts affect settlement ..read more

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: Factors that need to be addressed before a CAT claim can be considered stable. Who is involved with following a catastrophic claim over the long term.   How to reserve for a claim – both initially and after the claim is stable.  ..read more

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: Services and modifications that need to be in place before the employee’s return home.   How MEC helps facilitate a smooth and successful transition for the employee and their family.  Options for attendant care, if required. The advantages of returning home versus ..read more