Be proactive
It is easier to prevent workers compensation fraud than it is to prove it. Employers should make sure new hires have the skills and the character they want in their employees. A sound hiring policy is the best place to start.
Hire wisely. Conduct background checks on applicants, and verify references.
Focus on safety. Making the workplace safer reduces the chance of accidents and the opportunity for someone to fake an injury.
Develop a return-to-work policy. Tell job candidates that if they get injured on the job, the company will work with the doctor to help them return to work as soon as medically reasonable.
Educate, don’t threaten. Explain that workers compensation fraud hurts everyone, not just the insurance carrier. Let employees know that fraudulent claims can force employers to decrease benefits, lay off employees, or go out of business.
Adopt a zero-tolerance policy. Make it clear that fraud can carry serious consequences, including termination and prosecution.
Stay in touch. Keep regular contact with employees who are off work due to an injury. Document each contact or attempted contact. Injured workers who are difficult to contact or who are belligerent may be committing workers compensation fraud.
By David Wylie of Texas Mutual
