As the drumbeat of “Medicare for all” approaches a crescendo with the advent of the 2020 presidential elections, we should take a moment to fully analyze what the idea entails. For the proponents of the concept, the argument is decidedly one sided. They speak of our “right” to quality medical care and extending coverage to…
It's a Bird, It's a Plane, It's Super Human Poo
There is an old saying that goes, “With friends like this, who needs enemies?” That was a sentiment somewhat felt when I saw a tweet from my friend Judge David Langham, where he cited an article outlining the search for “Super Poo Donors” and suggesting it would be a perfect topic for one of my…
Nominations Are Open: Will You Comp Laude?
The workers’ compensation industry takes its share of bad news; some of it deserved, and some of it not. However, beyond the din of negativity, good things do happen within this industry. Many of us know of examples of injured workers who, despite horrific injuries and the challenges of resulting impairment, have risen up and…
The Silly Season of Legislative Spring
Well, the new year is here, and spring is just around the corner. We all know what that means. Legislative activity is in full bloom around the nation. Unlike mother nature’s springtime, which brings life, optimism, renewed hope and the promise of new beginnings, the legislative spring is a bit more of a quagmire-ish affair.…
Workers' Comp and the Creepy Advance of Technology
This morning finds me in New Mexico. My 99-year-old father took a fall last week, and after a brief hospital stay, he has been placed in a nursing center for follow up care. As a result, I made last minute plans to fly out here to visit him and help my sister with some of…
The Week's (Completely) Absurd
As the weekend approaches, we leave workers’ compensation behind for a brief respite. I have to warn you. This week’s collection of absurd stories is not for the faint of heart. This week involves drugs, hot watches, body cavity searches and very strange injections. Proceed at your own risk. When we’re done, you’ll be happy…
Clogging Our Way Out of Plantar Fasciitis
This may be handy information for the folks who handle “repetitive walking” claims from correctional officers of Illinois’ Menard Correctional Center. And since our industry sees its fair share of foot related issues from a variety of jobs that are hard on the feet, this may be useful to a broader group as well. The good news…
When Your Employee is Arrested for Assault with a Dead Chicken
First, we should unequivocally state that the incident discussed here did not occur at a Waffle House. That little bit of information alone should be enough to make the risk management team at that august 24-hour a day institution jump for joy. They should all take an extra thousand out of petty cash and enjoy…
Doctor, Respect Thy Patient's Time
In most businesses, routine tardiness and delay is not accepted or expected. Unfortunately, in the medical world, the opposite is often the case. We not only tolerate delays and late appointments when dealing with medical professionals; we practically expect and plan for that very specific inconvenience. Expecting it, however, makes it no less frustrating. I…
Wanted: 80 Hour a Week Part Time Assistant for Egotistical Twit
No, I’m not looking for an assistant. This story is about some other egotistical twit. Actually, it is about someone who sounds like an egomaniacal dumbass; one who needs an assistant to do his actual job. Perhaps I should ‘splain a bit. A help wanted ad on the website seek.com went viral last week simply…