A Novel Approach to Reducing Workers Compensation Costs in a Multicenter Hospital System.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of an injury prevention and monitoring program implemented by athletic trainers to reduce workers compensation costs in a hospital system with multiple centers and locations.

METHODS: A retrospective analysis of workers compensation claims (ie, lost days, light days, and incurred costs) was performed to compare injury data from 2 years before to 2 years after the start of the program.

RESULTS: The program significantly reduced the organization's incurred costs by 46.7% (P = 0.031) and light days by 44% (P = 0.022). Lost days were found to decrease by 37%, however, this decrease was not statistically significant (P = 0.078).

CONCLUSIONS: Athletic trainers, using their knowledge of anatomy, biomechanics, ergonomics, injury management, and rehabilitation, can effectively prevent and reduce workers compensation costs in a multicenter hospital system.