American Acadamy of Workers Compensation Physicians

In this Issue:

Announcing the Launch of the American Academy of Workers’ Compensation Physicians (AAWCP)
Become a Member Today!

Featured Articles:

Why Physicians Must Have a Voice in the Workers’ Compensation Arena
Workers’ Compensation in the United States: 2024 Market Overview
How Physicians Can Succeed in Workers' Compensation Medicine

Announcing the Launch of the American Academy of

Workers’ Compensation Physicians (AAWCP)

The American Academy of Workers’ Compensation Physicians (AAWCP) was established to address a critical gap: the lack of a dedicated forum to support physicians who are interested in Workers’ Compensation but struggle to navigate its complex landscape.

Many physicians have relayed that their medical training did not cover the intricacies of Workers’ Compensation. While they appreciate the fee structures associated with this field, they often find themselves overwhelmed by the extensive paperwork, return-to-work protocols, and communication requirements involved in managing a Workers’ Compensation claim.

The AAWCP was created to help physicians successfully access and thrive in this $60 billion market. We provide targeted training in Workers’ Compensation and help physicians bridge the communication gap between the many stakeholders involved in the system. These include:

Insurers, providers, networks, and managed care organizations
Case managers, claims examiners, and third-party administrators (TPAs)
Hospitals and surgery centers
Physical rehabilitation centers
Self-insured groups and municipalities/public entities
Medical device companies
Attorneys
And other key players

Why Physicians Must Have a Voice
in the Workers’ Compensation Arena

In today’s increasingly complex workers’ compensation landscape, physicians are often the silent stakeholders—tasked with treating injured workers, navigating evolving guidelines, and balancing clinical judgment with regulatory demands. Yet, despite their central role, many medical professionals feel disconnected from the wider Work Comp ecosystem. Or, they have no voice and no one to help with even basic things – like information on insurers and medical networks in their state and networking and Q&A and more.

That’s where the AAWCP steps in.

The American Academy of Workers’ Compensation Physicians exists to ensure that doctors are informed, supported, and connected. We offer:

State-Specific Data – we can provide data on Work Comp in your state – including insurers, claims companies, medical networks and more
Answers – Get help with day-to-day Work Comp questions and operational challenges
Professional Connections – Network with peers, share best practices, and strengthen your referral pipeline
Real-World Support – we can help with contact information at Insurers, Managed Care Companies and more. And, provide support (or find it) for you for other items. Our goal is to help make your Work Comp practice easier to manage

Physicians are not just providers—they’re partners in recovery, guardians of patient outcomes, and key contributors all along the way. It’s time your perspective was recognized. We help you through the Workers’ Compensation maze.

Join the AAWCP toay at www.wcdoctors.com. It’s only $300 per year and no risk…as dues are fully refundable at the end of any year (for that year) if you feel you didn’t get a satisfactory return on your investment.

Workers’ Compensation in the United States:
2024 Market Overview

In 2024, the U.S. workers’ compensation insurance market recorded approximately $57.48 billion in direct premiums written. Medical costs typically account for 60% to 65% of premium dollars. Thus, medical costs for Workers’ Compensation claims are approximately $36B.

These are the Top 10 Insurers in writing Workers’ Compensation premium in the United States (2024):

Travelers: $3.8B in premium
Hartford: $2.9B
Berkshire Hathaway: $2.7B
Liberty Mutual: $2.6B
AmTrust: $2.1B
Chubb: $1.9B
Zurich: $1.8B
State Insurance Fund of NY: $1.7B
Old Republic: $1.6B
ICW: $1.5B

And, here are some of the key trends impacting the industry:

Medical Inflation: Rising costs for outpatient care, pharmaceuticals, and diagnostics are reshaping claim severity.
Mental Health Coverage: Expanded definitions of workplace-related mental injuries are increasing physician involvement.
Gig Economy Legislation: New rules around independent contractor coverage are altering claim volumes and physician caseloads.
AI and Robotics in Safety: Emerging tech is reducing claim frequency but increasing complexity in injury classification.

How Physicians Can Succeed in
Workers' Compensation Medicine

Workers’ Compensation can be complex—but with the right approach, physicians can make a real difference in patient recovery. Here are a few general points:

Be Organized and Timely

Stay on top of paperwork and deadlines - reports and approvals must be submitted quickly.
Have clear records (and in a timely manner) helps everyone in the process.

Stick to Facts

Keep your documentation objective and based on medical evidence.
Avoid speculation—focus on what the injury is, what treatment is needed, and when the patient can return to work.

Know Your Role

Treating physicians focus on care and recovery.
Evaluators (like QMEs) give opinions for legal or administrative purposes—know which role you’re in.

Communicate with Everyone

Work with patients, adjusters, employers, and other providers to keep care moving smoothly.
Use simple, direct language that everyone can understand.

See the Whole Picture

A patient’s job demands and environment matter—factor those into your advice.

Success in Work Comp medicine includes navigating the system, helping patients recover, and keeping the process efficient and fair. Follow these basics, and you’ll be well-positioned to thrive.

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