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:

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 the

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,

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 int

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 pract

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 Poi

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 mig

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 ultim

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 p

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