The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) Board of Directors continues to enhance the agency’s rate reform efforts.The Board has voted to further strengthen the requirements for group sponsors, those associations that provide services to employers who qualify for group discounts. The new requirements will give BWC greater opportunities to ensure sponsor associations and their affiliates are marketing their services accurately and responsibly.
Certification requirements will apply to the marketing methodologies of all sponsoring associations and their affiliates. Actions that could lead to revocation of certification include:
- Instructing prospective employers to provide false information on forms;
- Claiming the sponsoring association, affiliation or representative is endorsed by BWC; or
- Offering discounts or refunds that are unattainable.
BWC may apply the following sanctions if these rules are violated:
- Revoke certification of a sponsoring association; and/or
- Prohibit the addition of new participants to the sponsor’s group.
Additionally, the Board has announced its next public forum will be held on Thursday, Aug. 27, 2009. The forum will provide injured workers, business owners, medical providers, stakeholders and other interested parties with the opportunity to address members of the board of directors on any issue. Participants are encouraged to address issues related to: claim management; cost avoidance/cost reduction opportunities; suggestions for more responsive customer service; or resources we should provide for better service.
The forum will be held from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 27, in the auditorium of the William Green Building, located at 30 W. Spring St., Columbus.
Those interested in addressing the board at the public forum are encouraged to pre-register by 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 17. Registration forms are available online at ohiobwc.com. On-site registration will also be accepted. Speakers will be registered on a first-come, first-served basis.
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