Workers' Compensation Updates and News   

DWC Return to Work Reimbursement Program Does Not Apply to Political Subdivisions

On 4/1/2010 the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) adopted amendments to existing and new rules regarding the Return to Work Reimbursement Program for Employers.  This program was originally a pilot with the purpose of reimbursing small employers (50 employees or less) for workplace modifications that were necessary to enhance an employee’s ability to return to work after an injury.  The recent rule changes made the Return to Work Reimbursement Pilot Program for Small Employers permanent. They also increased the amount an employer could receive from the program from $2,500 to $5,000, and added an optional advance of funds plan to the program.  Unfortunately, Labor Code Section 413.022, which governs these rules, specifically excludes political subdivisions from participation in this program.  It is doubtful that the provisions of this legislation will change in the next legislative session, but we will be watching.

Fund Designated as a "High Performer" again on the DWC Performance-Based Oversight (PBO) Audit  

The Division of Workers' Compensation (DWC) at the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) conducted its bi-annual PBO audit this year. Below are the results for data submitted as of August 24, 2009. 

The audit revealed the Fund's overall score of 97.38% rendering High Performer (pdf) status.

  • The Fund scored over 95% for timely payment of income benefits
  • A score of 93% was received for timely submission of initial payment data
  • Scores of more than 99% were received for timely payment of medical bills and data transmission.

For this PBO assessment, DWC evaluted the TASB Risk Management Fund's performance in the following areas:

  • Timely payment of initial temporary income benefits (TIBs)  - 40% weight.
  • Timely processing of medical bills - 40% weight.
  • Timely submission of initial payment data via electronic data interchange (EDI) - 10% weight.
  • Timely submission of medical bill processing data via EDI -10% weight.

For specific questions about the results, contact Sarita Shipe at 800.482.7276, extension 7221.

New to Workers' Compensation?  

If you are new to workers' compensation and/or want claim form filing information, go to our WC Basics page to get started and check this page regularly to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.

Political Subdivision Workers' Compensation Alliance (the Alliance)

The Alliance is in full swing and many service areas have been implemented.  You can get information on TASB RMF Member Alliance procedures or go to the PSWCA Web Site to find treating doctors and additional details on which service areas are up and running.  

DWC News, Web, and Resources

The DWC Home Page has a wealth of information for all system participants, from current Division Initiatives to DWC Meetings. If you want employer-specific resources, go to the Employers section to get started.

If you are looking for DWC updates, be sure to check out the "What's New" section of their site. You can also go to the DWC Web Site and add the following links to your favorites.