Document Type
Thesis - University Access Only
Award Date
1998
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department / School
Industrial Management
Abstract
While the intent of this thesis is to reduce workers' compensation insurance costs there are many closely related problems that must be addressed in order to accomplish our goal. It has been well publicized that one of the driving factors in causing the increase in workers' compensation costs was an increase in medical costs. If we could be successful in preventing on the job injuries we would also reduce the medical related costs of workers' compensation insurance. Another factor involved in the rising cost of workers' compensation insurance is the indemnity benefits paid while employees are off work. One of the factors driving up indemnity costs is the cost of litigation in settling workers' compensation claims. Many of our employers in South Dakota are small and have few employees. They cannot afford to have sophisticated loss control programs that can be afforded by larger employers. The problems faced in controlling workers' compensation costs are not only monetary but extend to the injured employees and their families. Industrial injuries can cause heartache and hardship for those involved. There are also secondary factors which must be considered, such as lost production, overtime for other employees, and training of new employees. In preparation for this thesis literature was reviewed in order to determine what some companies have accomplished in reducing workers' compensation costs. Laws in other jurisdictions have been reviewed to determine the successes and the failures in other jurisdictions. Based on this information conclusions were formed which can be used as guidelines to assist employers in their effort to reduce both job related injured and the cost of workers' compensation insurance.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Workers' compensation -- Costs Insurance, Health -- Costs
Format
application/pdf
Number of Pages
97
Publisher
South Dakota State University
Recommended Citation
DeGreef, Philip J., "Controlling the Cost of Workers' Compensation Insurance" (1998). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 516.
https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/etd2/516