Featured Sponsor

David W. O'Brien, a member of the California and New Hampshire bars, received his Bachelor of Education from Plymouth State University in 1950 and the degree of Doctor of Law from the University of San Francisco in 1960. He is admitted to the U.S. District Courts, Districts of New Hampshire and California. He is also a member of the American Bar Association. He is a Retired Workers' Compensation Administrative Law Judge (WCALJ) and has been an Administrative Law Judge with the California Unemployment Insurance Appeals Board and a Deputy Commissioner of Corporations for the State of California. He has served as a Senior Counsel for the State Compensation Insurance Fund and also devoted many years to the private practice of law as both a defense and plaintiff attorney. He serves as an expert witness in civil cases and is a Certified Administrator for Self-Insurance Plans.

Lacey Fundraiser

Please join us for a fundraiser for Jackie Lacey who we hope will be our next District Attorney.

Jackie Lacey is currently Chief Deputy District Attorney, the second-in-command position to District Attorney Steve Cooley.Our current DA Steve Cooley is extremely important in the prosecution of workers' compensation fraud cases.

Please join us in welcoming DA Cooley and Jackie Lacey for Hors D'ourves and Cocktails on April 18, 2012. Please see the flyer with more detailed information. Please let us know if you plan to attend by April 13, 2012. Donations should be sent to the address noted on the flyer. If you have any questions please contact Christina Bardelli via email or by phone at 818-535-0806.

Sponsors

Our School

Please visit our online school.

The WorkCompAcademy is a full featured online learning experience. Our faculty includes the leading practitioners in the California Workers' Compensation Community. Our online curriculum covers all aspects of Workers' Compensation Claims, from basic concepts to advanced topics of value to experienced practitioners such as senior claims exectives, attorneys, and Qualified Medical Evaluators. Students can access classes any time, from any internet connected computer. Courses can be completed at an individualized pace.

WorkCompAcademy Weekly News

Editions	Weekly Edition Topics
May 14 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Panel Decision Approves Late Correction of MPN Notices. San Jose Business Owners Arrested. CHP Officer Loses Appeal of Fraud Conviction. Beverly Hills Dentist Arrested for Insurance Fraud. U.S. Senate Probes Painkiller Makers. American Psychiatric Association Schedules Final Public Comments for DSM-5. NCCI Says Combined Ratios Unsustainably High. Industry Organizations Push Comp Ebilling. DWC Launches New Website for Injured Workers. CompWest Selects Valen Technologies for Predictive Modeling.
May 7 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. WCAB Limits WCJ Pre-Trial Authority to Develop Medical Record. Panel Decision Limits WCAB Jurisdiction in NFL Case. Former NFL Linebacker Sues Attorney for Botching Comp Case. Tulare Woman Faces Five Year Jail Sentence. Feds File Charges Against 107 Medical Providers. Family Members Charged with Comp Fraud. Amusement Park Owner Pleads Guilty in Fraud Case. GAO Report Says Federal Comp Wastes Millions. DIR Opens Small Business Portal. Senate Rules Committee Confirms DIR and DWC Directors.
April 30 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Court of Appeal Affirms Finding of Stroke Injury. WCAB Panel Decision Strikes Down Almaraz Rating. Lien Hearing Rep Loses Another Round at WCAB. Spinal Implant Provider Faces Fraud Charges. More Roofing Contractors Arrested For Fraud. Painting Company Owner Arrested. SMART Bill May Solve Medicare Reimbursement Problems. Healthcare Self Insurance Program Struggles to Attract Old Members. Study Says Future Workers' Compensation Profitability is a A Bumpy Road. SCIF Cancels Layoff Plans.
April 23 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Hearing in ServiceMaster Fraud Case Begins. Apple Valley Man Faces Fraud and Perjury Charges. DWC Posts Updated Pharmaceutical Fee Schedule. Spine Injection Little Help for Low Back Pain. Drug Trend Report Says Waste Adds $2.1 Billion to Pharmacy Costs. Study Finds High Rates of Off Label Prescribing. Hospitals See Decline in Care-Related Infections. SCIF Report Shows $1 Billion in Premiums and Declares $50 Million Dividend. WCIRB Says Comp Premiums Up $1 Billion.
April 16 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. WCAB Says "Invited Error" Waives Irregularities in PQME Process. L.A. Firefighter Arrested for Fraud. CHP Officer Faces Fraud Charges. CAL/OSHA Issues $168.015 Citation For Deaths at Recycling Facility. CWCI Scorecard Looks at Spinal Disorder Claims James Little Re-Elected Chair of WCIRB. WCIRB Rate Filing Requests 4.1% Premium Increase. Federal Work Comp Claim Department Out of Control. Dr. Douglas Benner Appointed EK Health Services Chief Medical Officer.
April 9 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Order for Back Pay Reversed for Injured Psychology Professor. L.A. NFL Dementia Civil Cases Transferred to Pennsylvania. School District Security Guard Arrested for Fraud. Several WCJ Ethics Violations Found By Advisory Committee. CAAA Argues for Increased Permanent Disability Benefits. "Health Care Hustle" Documentary to Air on CNBC. Pharmacies Dispense 69 Tons of Oxycodone. WCIRB Recommends Premium Rate Increases. CNA Considers Workers Comp a "Problem Line". DIR Adds Afternoon Forum Session in Oakland.
April 2 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Court of Appeal Rejects Psychiatric Injury After Fall From Ladder. Court of Appeal Schedules Oral Argument in Valdez MPN Case. School District Settles Fraud Case With Teacher. Landscaper Indicted for Fraudulent $400,000 Workers Comp Claim. Auto Worker Pleads Guilty in Fraud Case. Buelton Construction Worker Jailed. Study Says Electronic Health Records Saves on Tests. Painkiller Drug Abusers Replace Oxycontin With Opana. Subsequent Injury Funds Going Broke and Going Away. High Tension In Sacramento Over Comp Issues.
March 26 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Employer Must Bear Loss of Stolen and Forged Settlement Check. Administrative Law Judge Fails to Prove Post Injury Discrimination. More NFL Teams Prevail in Arbitration Against Players. U.S. Supreme Court Rules in 9th Circuit Longshore Case. Uninsured Contractor Faces Year in Prison. Broadspire Holds Pharmacy Summit. DIR Announces Additional Sessions for Workers' Compensation Forums. New WCIRB Committee Members Elected. Survey Lists Employer Top Priorities. Arthur J. Gallagher and Co. Placed On Worlds Most Ethical Companies List.
March 19 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. WCAB Requires Re-Evaluation by PQME Who Moved Office. CVS Pharmacies Wins Round One in Battle with DEA. Jury Convicts Correctional Officer in Shooting Case. Physician Indicted In Biggest Medicare Fraud in History. OSHA Fines Green Energy Company $540,890 for Explosion. Prescribing Post Surgical Opioids May Be Unnecessary and Harmful. WCIRB Annual Report Shows Increase In Premium Levels. CWCI Public Self-Insured Study Says Costs Fast Approaching Pre-Reform Levels. AMA Guides Review Company Files for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy. Liberty Mutual Wins Business Insurance Innovation Award.
March 12 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Applicant Attorneys Prevail in Malpractice Claim over Compromise and Release. Examiner's Release of Psyche Report Was Wrong, but Caused No Damage. Court of Appeal Rules in Battle Between Comp Defense Lawyers. Attorney Awarded $1.9 Million Fee In Subrogation Case Despite Court Rule. Contractor's Association Applauds Crackdown. More Costly Robotic Surgeries are Safer. Liberty Mutual Income Falls 78% For the Year. L.A. WCAB Assailant Gets 11 Years to Life. WCRI Publishes WC State Comparison Tool. DWC Sets Next Filing Expo in Sacramento on April 5.
March 5 Edition	Hailey Benton, Esq. is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Court of Appeal Broadens Defense to Psychiatric Claims. Tort Claim for Pilot Killed at Van Nuys Airport Barred by Exclusive Remedy. Civil Claim by SF State University Librarian Barred by Exclusive Remedy. 16 More NFL Players Lose California Comp Cases in Arbitration. Court of Appeal Enforces Stipulation to Retire in Settlement Agreement. Roofer Sentenced to Year in Jail for Premium Fraud. So. Cal Physician Faces Murder Charges for Prescribing Painkillers. Workers' Comp Writers Tackle 30% Drop in Rates, Stiff Competition. WCIRB Launches Work Comp Coverage Website. SCIF Adopts Bonus Program for Employees.
February 27 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Lien Claimant Sanctioned for Failure to Produce Evidence at Trial. Medical Group Targets Excessive Medical Testing. Surgeons Report High Rate of Alcoholism and Burnout. Feds Recover Record $4.1 Billion From Fraudsters. Chamber of Commerce Starts 2012 "Job Killer" Bill List Early. CWCI - Back Injury Score Card. Workers' Compensation Subrogation Efficiency Increases. DWC Electronic Filing Expo in San Bernardino.
February 20 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Sacramento Bee Employee Convicted of WC Fraud. Illegal Contractor Gets Jail Time for Third Offense. Berkeley City Council Startled by Workers' Compensation Costs. DWC Increases Ambulance Fee Schedule by 2.4%. DWC is Changing Some E-filing Rules. DWC Plans Open Forums for Stakeholder Input. DWC Announces 2012 Carrie Nevans Community Service Awards. Redding Applicant Attorney Appointed to WCAB. American Specialty Launches Workers' Comp Program.
February 13 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Court of Appeal Says Lien Collection Company is Administrator not Assignee. Chiropractor Sentenced for Workers' Comp Fraud. Claimant Guilty in Fraud Case After Three Week Jury Trial. Man Sentenced to 77 Months in Jail and $10.8 Million Restitution for Fraud. WSJ Investigation of WC Spinal Surgery Marketers and Distributors. Proposed Fifth Edition of Psychiatric Diagnostic Manual Mired in Controversy. DEA Takes Aim At Mainstream Pharmacies. Job Site Death Leads to License Suspension. Workplace Homicides Decline.
February 6 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Serious and Willful Misconduct Award Upheld. Exclusive Remedy Does Not Bar Emotional Distress in Sexual Harassment Case. Providers' Suit Against UR Vendor Survives AntiSLAPP Motion. Contractor Faces 57 Felony Counts. San Francisco Factory Fined $700K For Ammonia Leak. Funding Bill Seeks to Address Drug Shortages. DWC Posts Report on Alternative Dispute Resolution/Carve Out Program. DWC Disability Accommodation Regulations Are Effective Feb. 18. California Workers' Comp Insurers Returns Improved in 2010. Liberty Mutual Annual Workplace Safety Index Shows Lower Costs.
January 30 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Firefighter Loses Post Injury Discrimination Case Against LA County. No Subrogation When Employer Has Exclusive Possession Of Accident Site. Hearing Representative Escamila Continues Battle Against Suspension. Man Convicted on Five Fraud Counts in Yolo County. Probe Finds City Workers' Compensation Settlements are "Exceedingly Large." New Federal Regulations Will Require Employers to Demonstrate Compliance With Safety Laws, Wage and Hour Laws and Anti-Discrimination Laws. Warehouse Gets $256K in Cal-OSHA Citations. WC Cost Increases Due to Recession. Guidewire Software Closes $115M IPO.
January 23 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Panel Decision Allows Judicial Notice of AD Website to Prove Valid MPN. Physician Sentenced to 8 Years for $5 Million Scam. DWC Bulletin on "First Fill" Pharmacy Situation. DWC Clarifies Policy on QME Billing Requirements. Carriers Report Combined Premium Increase of 2.8 Percent for 2012. CHSWC Study: California Injury and Illness Prevention Program is Ineffective. CSHWC Study Discusses Impact of AMA Guides Adoption. CHSWC Released the "Construction Case Study Training Guide."
January 16 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Court of Appeal Reverses Dismissal of Petition to Reopen Filed at Wrong Office. Santa Barbara Physician Arrested for Drug Trafficking. Los Angeles Woman Sentenced in $6.2 Million Medical Fraud Case. Turlock Postal Worker Sentenced to One Year for Comp Fraud. Unlicensed Contractor to Serve 90 Days. LAPD Sergeant Arrested for Comp Fraud. Redlands Man Charged With Fraud. Stronger Pain Medications Cause Concern. CDI Forms Insurance Diversity Task Force.
January 9 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Employer Prevails in Malicious Prosecution Action Against Injured Worker. WCAB Continues to Pursue Suspension of Lien Rep Daniel Escamilla. 25% of DME Suppliers Face CMS Enforcement Actions. Many Doctors Claim They Are Going Broke. Medication Shortages Set New Record. Workers' Comp Costs For Older Workers Less Than Expected. 971 SCIF Workers Take Severance Package. Jose Gonzalez New President O.C. Bar Association.
January 2 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories.Supreme Court Rules Against Adjusters in Overtime Class Action. Injury to Firefighter While Trimming Bushes at Home Found Compensable. Convicted Worker Need Only Repay Portion of Benefits Obtained by Fraud. Fake Companies Hide Organized Medical Crime. Meat Packer Fined by Cal-OSHA in Death Case. DIR Launches Labor Enforcement Task Force. Study: Washington COHE Program Improves Medical Outcomes. AIG Settles Longstanding Premium Dispute for $450 Million.
December 26 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. WCAB Panel Decision Clarifies 5th Amendment Rights. Second DCA Approves Settlement of AIG Claim Adjuster's Class Action. School District Industrial Leave Benefit is Unconditional. Panel of Federal Judges to Consider Consolidation of NFL Lawsuits. Employee Misclassification Class Action Filed Against Apple. Federal Health Care Fraud Cases Reach All Time High. County of LA Workers' Compensation Costs $1 Million a Day. CDI Says Workers Compensation is Stable. 2012 Mileage Rate Unchanged. Defense Attorney Randal Klein Dies at age 54.
December 19 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Supreme Court Sets Briefing Schedule on Healthcare Law. Medtronic Resolves Illegal Kickback Case for $23.5 Million. LAUSD Police Officer Gets 5 Year Sentence for Shooting Hoax. Fontana Man Arrested For Comp Fraud. Owner of Milpitas Landscaping Company Faces Charges. Study Says Back Pain MRI Unnecessary. WCIRB 3rd Quarter Report Shows Premium Increases With Record High Loss Ratios. SCIF Changes Policy on Distribution of $50 Million Dividend. New OSIP Audit Procedures for 2012. William J. Mudge New President and CEO of WCIRB.
December 12 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Court of Appeal Clarifies Constitutional Limits on Interfering With Comp Law. Federal Medicare Case May Hinder Workers Comp Settlements. Santa Clara Business Owner Charged With $1 Million Fraud. Huntington Pharmacy Owners Plead Not Guilty. Officials Target Underground Economy. DWC Medical Unit Changes Panel Reviews After Messele Modification. GE, Microsoft Form Healthcare Software Venture. DWC Reduces Comp Policy Assessment Rates by $113.3 Million. SCIF Offers Earthquake Catastrophe Bond to Cover Comp Losses. Festa Named Vice Chair of CIGA Board.
December 5 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Court of Appeal Approves Publication in Dorsett Apportionment Case. County of Santa Barbara Invokes Workplace Violence Safety Act. Expedited Hearing Inappropriate in Complex Case. Perpetrator of Largest Known California Comp Fraud Sentenced. U.S. House Passes Work Comp Bill. CWCI Study: MPN Use At All Time High. Former Zenith Executive Joins EK Health Services as VP of Operations. DWC Opens JET File to More Users. DWC Seeks Nominations for 2012 Carrie Nevans Community Service Awards. Len Welsh New SCIF Head of Workplace Safety.
November 28 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Panel Decision Reverses Penalty for "Late" Salary Continuation. WCAB Issues Final Word in Messele Case. Comp Fraud Conviction Upheld by Court of Appeal. Sandoz Resolves Charges for Over $130 Million Including $40 Million to California. New Study: "White Coat Effect" Inflates 37% of Blood Pressure Readings. SCIF Offers $50 Million Severance Package. WCIRB Appoints Interim President. Services Scheduled For Floyd, Skeren and Kelly Attorney, Norman F. Boxley.
November 21 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Owner of Construction Company Not Liable for Employee Injuries. Court of Appeal Reverses WCAB Apportionment and No Injury Findings. Prime Healthcare Lawsuit Against SEIU and Kaiser - Claims and Counter-Claims. Claimant Prosecuted for Fake Robbery. Yucaipa Couple Charged With Fraud and Conspiracy. Medicare Fraud Contractors - a Decade of Repeated Systemic Failures. Feds Push for More Generic Drugs. SCIF Glendale Staff Protest Layoffs. Registration for 19th Annual DWC Educational Conference Opens. Zenith CEO Stanley Zax to Retire in January.
November 14 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. WCAB Limits Messele Case to Prospective Application Only. Court of Appeal Orders Benson Apportionment in 100% Case. Capistrano Couple To Pay $3.4 Million In Fraud Case. Moreno Valley Man Charged With Comp Fraud. National Committee Considers HIPAA Standards for Workers Compensation. AIG Reports Third Quarter Net Loss of $4.1 Billion. State Fund To Keep Rates Steady. Insurance Commissioner Issues Premium Benchmark. Insurance Commissioner Encouraged by SCIF Rate Announcement. DWC Sets Electronic Filing Expo in Oakland on Dec. 1.
November 7 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Contractor Without Comp Insurance Must Disgorge All Customer Payments. CIGA Not Obligated to Pay Costs and Interest in Subrogation Action. Glaxo Settles Criminal/Civil Probe With U.S. for $3 Billion. 16 Arrested In $18 Million L.A. Area Medical Fraud Case. Racketeering and Corruption Alleged Against Riverside Doctor. CDC Says Deaths From Painkiller Overdose Surge to Record. Report Says Harbor-UCLA Medical Center Not Safe. NCCI Study: Larger Claims Have Higher Cost Inflation. Bryan Bogardus New CompWest President. Allen Goodwin New Republic Senior V.P.
October 31 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Pacific Bell Prevails in Discrimination Suit by Injured Worker. Supreme Court Declines Ogilvie Review. Statewide Sting Nabs More Illegal Contractors. DWC Tightens QME Process After Messele Case. DWC Sets TTD Rates for 2012. Interpreter Costs Are Becoming a National "Hot-Button". GAO Study Finds Prescription Drug Abuse. New Federal Disclosure Rules On Promotional Payments to Doctors. Device Makers Pay Orthopedic Surgeons Millions. ACOEM and IAIABC Speak Out Against Opoid Drug Abuse.
October 24 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Supreme Court Denies Rehearing in COLA Case. Investigators Case Against County of Los Angeles Dismissed Under Anti-SLAPP Law. Statute of Limitations for Premium Suit Starts After Audit is Complete. 14 Charged in LA Medicare Fraud. Another Postal Worker Pleads Guilty in WC Fraud Case. Medicare Often Restores Licenses to Fraudsters. Industry Groups Praise Gov. Brown, But Fret Over 2012. Study Confirms Prevalence of Pre-existing Mental Disorders. "Sticker Shock" Causes Big Orthopedic Device Sales Decline. Workers' Comp Sales Fall 11%.
October 17 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Governor Brown Vetoed Bill That Would Extend 104 Week TD Cap. Governor Brown Vetoed Modifications to SJDB Program. Governor Brown Vetoed UR Bill Requiring California Licensed Physicians. Governor Brown Vetoes Bill That Would Have Limited Apportionment. Governor Brown Vetoes CPT Code Additions to the OMFS. New Law to Lower Compounded Pharmaceutical Costs. Chamber of Commerce Applauds Death of 2011 "Job Killer Bills". Tree-Trimming Business Owner Faces Fraud Charges.
October 10 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. New Orleans Saints Prevail in Arbitration Against Ex Players. Kern County Volunteer Firefighter Awarded Benefits. Longstanding city of LA Audit Disputer Case Dismissed as "Moot." Detroit Lions Seek to Limit California WC Claims. DWC Posts Interim Pharmaceutical Fee Schedule. SCIF to Lay Off 1800 People by June. MSC Care Management Acquires Integrated Healthcare Services. Washington "Specific Dose" Opiate Guideline Praised. CHSWC Issues Report on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
October 3 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Chicago Bears Players Lose Bid To Litigate Claims in California. Claimant With Insidious Progressive Disease Awarded TD Beyond Five Year Time Limit. WCAB Affirms Inadmissibility of Non MPN Physician Reports. WCAB En Banc Decision Clarifies QME Panel Request Time Limits. LAPD Detective Pleads No Contest in WC Fraud Case. More Than 10 Million Patient Records Compromised in Last Two Years. Employers Explore Strategies for Opioid Abuse in Workers Comp. WCAB Seeks Suspension of Hearing Representative's Right to Practice. Employers Holdings Ends Efforts to Purchase Guard Insurance. Passing of Former Presiding WCJ Larry Greenblatt.
September 26 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Doctors Rarely Face Consequences for Drug Kickbacks. Highland Man Arrested for Comp Fraud. Claimant Arrested for Working at DMV While Disabled. Cities and Counties Agonize Over Work Comp Costs. WCIRB Reports 3% Premium Increase In 2011. U.C. Davis Study: Comp Premiums Tied to Investment Returns. CompWest Founder Steps Down. Daniel R. Brown Esq. Appointed Manager of FSK Camarillo Office.
September 19 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. San Francisco Files Supreme Court Petition in Ogilvie Case. Maxim Healthcare to Pay $130 Million to Settle Fraud Probe. Prosecutors Get Tough on Pain Med Prescribers. Undercover Operation Nets 9 Contractors Without Comp Insurance. Hospital Worker Injury Presumption Bill Fails in Senate. New ICD-10 Codes Define Thousands of Injuries. Feds Limit Public Access to Med Malpractice Database. NCCI Report Ranks California High in Physician Dispensing Prescription Drugs. CWCI Says WC Medical Payments Exceed Pre-Reform Levels. Risk Managers Displaying More Proactive Traits.
September 12 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Order for Psychological Treatment Does Not Require Finding of Injury to Psyche. Task Force Shuts Down Los Angeles Prescription Mills. Robbery Perpetrator Stress Claim Ends in Fraud Conviction. Convicted Lien Claimant Wins Time Off His 12 Year Sentence. Controversial Babysitter Bill Frozen in Committee. Insurance Policy Transparency Bill Awaits Governor's Signature. Scientists Find Gene That Controls Chronic Pain. City of La Puente Faces Loss of Comp Insurance.
September 5 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. SCIF Does Not Owe Policy Holders Interest on Premium Deposits. Court of Appeal Rules on Boy Scout Ranger Earnings. Legacy COLA Cases Start to Unravel. Another Unlicensed Contractor With No Comp Insurance Pleads Guilty. Roseville Gym Owner Sentenced for Workers Comp Fraud. Health Care Fraud Prosecutions Up 85%. Federal Work Comp Fund to Run Out of Cash. Comp Insurers See Higher Rates and Lower Losses. Critics Like "Work Comp" Pilot TV Show. Farmers Insurance Celebrates Grand Opening.
August 29 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Supreme Court Rules on Subrogation Case. Petition for Rehearing Filed in Duncan COLA Case. Almaraz/Guzman Appellate Process Ends. L.A. Attorney Sentenced for Insurance Fraud. Chino Couple Charged With Insurance Fraud. Broadspire to Administer Claims for Hip Replacement Recall. Bill Increases TTD Costs by $210 Million. Workers' Comp Rates Will Likely Stay Flat for 2012. CWCI Study Says TD Benefits Continue to Climb. Liberty Mutual Develops Predictive Model for Claims.
August 22 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Study: Doctors Face Constant Risk of Lawsuits. Black Market Drugs Increasing at Alarming Rate In California. Jury Convicts L.A. Physician of Sexually Assaulting Female Patients. Diagnostic Tests May Not Improve Diagnostic Accuracy. Reinsurer Transatlantic in Bidding War with Berkshire Hathaway. DWC Proposes Disability Accommodation Regulations. Hospital Outpatient Departments and Ambulatory Surgical Centers Fee Schedule Changes Posted. DWC Schedules JET File Transmission Code Testing. Employers Cry Foul Over Bills to Avoid Back Injuries.
August 15 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Supreme Court Rules on Controversial COLA Case. Fake Social Security Card Bars Injured Worker Discrimination Claim. Experts Say Impact of Ogilvie May be Neutral. DWC Proposes New Lien Rules. Richard L. Newman Appointed DWC Acting Chief Judge. Orange County Doctor Convicted in $154 Million Scam. L.A. DME Supplier Convicted in $14 Million Fraud Scheme. Republic Appoints Allen Goodwin as Senior VP. Fitch Rates $611 Million CIGA Bonds at AA.
August 8 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Court of Appeal Annuls Ogilvie Award. Insurance Code Trumps Federal Arbitration Act. L.A. Physician Pleads Guilty to Selling Painkillers. County To Use Comp Insurance to Weed Out Underground Economy. Medicare Launches "Predictive Modeling" Anti-Fraud Tool Nationwide. Experts Claim Integrity Testing Cuts Comp Costs. Rosa Moran Sworn In as New DWC Director. Entertainment Industry Payroll Company Law Extended. ObamaCare Double-Edged Sword for Comp. PacificComp Appoints New Loss Control Manager.
August 1 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Personnel Action Must be "Lawful" for Psyche Defense. QME Khristine Eroshevich M.D Charged With Misconduct by Medical Board. IRS Launches Investigation of Bell Comp Settlements. Corona del Mar Doctor Sentenced to 18 Months for Medicare Fraud. Small Business Lacks Understanding of SIG Risks. WCIRB Proceeds with Enhanced Rate Filing System. Treatment Guidelines Not Followed in Pain Medication Cases. Workers Compensation Issue Unresolved by NFL Agreement.
July 25 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. WCAB Grants Reconsideration of Their En Banc Valdez Decision. DME Company Owners Convicted for $20 Million Fraud Scheme. LabCorp to Pay $49.5M to Settle Fraud Suit. WCJ Rosa Moran Appointed DWC Administrative Director. California Seeks Medicare Secondary Payer Law Reforms. New E-Billing Regulations Seminar Set for August. Medical Errors Down at U.S. Veterans' Hospitals.
July 18 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Employer Must Find a Physician Who Will Treat the Injured Worker. Three Doctors Convicted of Fraud. Pharmacy Owner Charged With Fraud. Veteran LAPD Officer Indicted in Prescription Drug Case. Doctors Take Aim at State Fund Contract. New Law Limits State Fund Directors and Officers. House Committee. Approves Federal Workers' Compensation Reforms. Majestic Insurance Rehabilitation Plan Now Finalized. Workers' Comp Rates Lead Market. California Seeks Turnaround of Employer Hostile Business Climate Perceptions.
July 12 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Supreme Court to Hear Work Comp Loss of Consortium Case. Controversial Cases Nearing Conclusion. LAPD Officer Pleads No Contest in Fraud Case. Navy Employee Sentenced in $300K Fraud Case. Salinas Man Pleads Guilty in Fraud Case. $32 Million in Grants to Local Law Enforcement Announced. Surge of NFL Claims Under California Legislative Scrutiny. Upsurge in L. A. County Claims Triggers Probe.
July 4 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Medicare Rules Keep Comp Cases Open. Bay Area Business Owner to Serve Four Years for Fraud. Mileage Reimbursement Rate Increases to 55.5 Cents Per Mile. Public Hearing Set for Proposed New QME Regulations. CHSWC Report Discusses EAMS Shortcomings. DWC Launches the JET File Option. Governor Brown Surprises Democrats With Veto of Union Sponsored Bill. Government Study on Chronic Pain Treatment Released.
June 27 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Hockey Player Awarded 100% PD under 1997 Schedule. Termination of LAUSD Teacher for WC Fraud Upheld. Employers Sued For Lack of "Suitable Seating" for Employees. California Dept of Corrections Employee Arrested for Fraud. California Medical Supply Firm Manager Sentenced. California Tops Chief Executive Magazine's Worst States for Business List. WCIRB Releases 2010 Annual Cost Report. Obesity and Lack of Exercise Linked to Chronic Pain. Debates Rage Over SCIF Out of State Proposal. CHSWC Publishes Uninsured Employer Booklet.
June 20 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Court of Appeal Rejects SCIF Petition in Almaraz case. Attorney Fee Awarded Out of Medicare Set Aside Funds. Indictments Unsealed in $17M Workers' Comp Fraud Case. Oxnard Police Officer Charged with Work Comp Fraud. Whittier Psychologist Arrested on Fraud Charges. Santa Cruz Sting Operation Nets Seven. Study Says Physician Overprescribing Rampant. Information on 300,000 Workers Comp Cases Exposed on Internet.
June 13 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Attorney Fee Calculation in COLA Case Clarified by WCAB. Court Approves Rehab Plan for Majestic Insurance. Comp Insurance Coverage Issues Add to NFL Team Woes. Top Health Care Fraud Attorney - Changes Sides. Drug Company Pleads Guilty in Federal Criminal Case. Healthcare Fraud Perpetrated by Biggest Healthcare Industry Players. ACOEM Publishes Guidelines for Chronic Use of Opioids. SCIF Seeks to Offer Workers' Comp in Other States. TTD Rates to Increase Next Year. DWC Compounding Pharmaceutical Pricing Error Discovered.
June 6 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. WCAB Panel Decision Narrows Definition of Medical Treatment. Excessive Adjuster Workload Does Not Violate Public Policy. Compounding Pharmaceutical Law Passes in Assembly. Florida Governor Expected to Sign Law Limiting California Comp Jurisdiction. Illinois Legislature Passes Work Comp Reform. Sedgwick CMS Acquires Cambridge Integrated Services Group, Inc. Crump Purchases Self Funded Alternatives LLC. WCIRB President to Retire.
May 30 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Disability Must be "New" and "Further" to Support Petition to Reopen. Ralphs Grocery Defeats Employee's Fraudulent Concealment Claim. Sim Carlisle Hoffman M.D. to Face Criminal Charges. Couple Arrested on Premium Fraud Charges. California Chamber of Commerce Lists 2011 Job Killer Bills. Employers Holdings Expands In Four More States. Workers Compensation Premium Total Rises. Common Pain Pills Increase Heart Risks.
May 23 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Federal Court Enjoins Medicare Collection Practices. Air Ambulance Multi Million Dollars Cases Thrown Out. Quest Diagnostics Settles Illegal Kickback Case for $241 Million. Orange County Couple Charged in $2 Million Fraud Case. Valley Springs Contractor Sentenced. Assembly Passes Apportionment Law Redux. Many States Plan Work Comp Cutbacks. After 173 Years,Titanic Insurer Atlantic Mutual - Sinks!
May 16 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Supreme Court to Hear Adjuster Overtime Pay Class Action. Conviction for Fraud and Unauthorized Practice of Law Upheld. Ex-Daly City Councilwoman Gets 6 Months in Jail. Sacramento Business Owner Pleads No Contest in Fraud Case. Window Cleaning Company Owner Arrested in Million Dollar Fraud Scheme. California Asks Bell to Investigate Police Disability Pensions. WCIRB Withdraws "Informational Filing" From CDI. WC Educational Events Scheduled for June
May 9 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Supreme Court Calendars Oral Argument in Duncan Case. Colton Woman Arrested for Workers' Comp Fraud. Florida Senate Passes Comp Reciprocity Bill to Circumvent California Claims. Is Dementia Caused by Football? Or is it Obesity? Insurance Market Rate Declines Improving. Patriot National Appoints New Claim Manager. More Firms Unbundle TPA Services. Mobile Devices Increase Workers' Comp Exposure.
May 2 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. U.S. Supreme Court Arbitration Ruling May Help NFL Teams. Chicago Bears Prevail in Arbitration Against Players in California Work' Comp Dispute. WCAB Awards Over $45K In Costs, Attorney Fees and Sanctions in Lien Case. Court of Appeal Rules on 5814 Penalty for TTD Underpayment. Fraud Conviction Upheld. DIR Revokes Mainstay Business Solutions SI Certificate. Actuarial Society: Health Reform Poses WC Challenges. Frequent Business Travel Linked to Increased Health Risks. Painkillers May Limit Antidepressaant Effectiveness. CWCI Opiod Study - Part II Shows Fentanyl Abuse.
April 25 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Reports of Non MPN Physicians Ruled Inadmissible. Federal Court Rejects California Exclusive WCAB Jurisdiction. Bakery Owners Sentenced in Fraud Case. Janitorial Company Owner Arrested for Premium Fraud. Medical Treatment Billing Regulations Approved. San Jose Audit Slams. Police and Firefighter Retirement Program. Majestic Insurance Ordered Into Conservation and Rehabilitation Plan. Calif. Workers' Comp Insurers' Net Worth Declining.
April 18 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. U.S. Tax Court Rules Workers' Comp Payments are Taxable. $50,000 Costs Imposed on Injured Worker for Rejecting CCP 998 Settlement Offer. WCAB Rules That EAMS Scanning Backlog Is No Excuse for Incomplete Record. Failure of QME to Issue Supplemental Report on Time Justifies New Panel. CDI Intervenes in Fraud Case Against Sutter Hospitals. Healthcare Fraud - One of America's Top Crime Problems. NICB Reports 9 Percent Rise in California Suspicious Claims. Is California Comp Near a Crisis Point? Study: Mechanical Lifts Improve Injury Rates in Long-Term Care Facilities. WCIRB Expands Online Information.
April 11 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Players Win NFL Work Comp Dispute. Turlock Postal Worker Arrested on Fraud Charges. Medical Errors Happen in One-Third of Cases. Governor Appoints Two to Fill DIR Positions. Former DIR Director Joins Bickmore Risk Services. NCCI Says Work Comp Market Continues Its Precarious Position. WCIRB Avoids Mid-Year Rate Filing. State Fund Reports Net Income of $171 Million. Another Hollywood Heavyweight Joins TV Pilot "Workers' Comp".
April 4 Edition	Brad Hutchins, MPT, CEA, CIEE is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. U.S. Supreme Court Approves Drug Pricing Secrecy. Bad Faith Claim Against SCIF Upheld. Court of Appeal Approves Loss of Consortium Expansion of Power Press Exception. Claim Adjusters Plead Guilty in Fraud Case. CWCI Study: Medical Costs Now Above Pre-Reform Levels. Study: Guideline Experts Have Conflict of Interest. CWCI Elects Board of Directors For 2011. Triangle Fire 100 Year Anniversary Marks Birth of Workers' Compensation
March 28 Edition	Darlene M. Ball, Esq.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Claimant Who Litigated For 20 Years Sues Everyone - And Loses. Fighting Off LeBoeuf Awards. DWC Readies Launch of New Electronic Filing Method. Feds Try to Clean Up MSA Hurdles - Again! Bristol Myers-Squibb Accused of Illegal Kickbacks. Three Arrested for Workers' Compensation Fraud. AIG Suffers $1 Billion Loss From Japan and Other Catastrophes. Majestic Capital on the Verge of Bankruptcy. Defining Normal in a Work Comp World.
March 21 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. WCAB En Banc Decision Clarifies Interpreter Liens. Reports by Treating Physicians Outside MPN Without Proper Referral Held Inadmissible. WCAB Rules That DOR is a Timely Petition to Reopen Within Five Years. Marathon Runner Arrested For Fraud. Remaining Fraud Fugitive Sentenced to 15 Years. GAO Study: Drug Price Increases Faster than Other Medical Costs. Study: $4 Drug Programs Could Save Billions. OSHA Publishes New Guide for Cranes, Derricks.
March 14 Edition	Robert Nichols Esq., is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. WCAB Discusses Effects of MPN Notice on Claimant Who Cannot Read or Write. UR or Spinal Surgery Process Required for Authorization Request by Any Physician. Kern County Increases Fraud Prosecutions. Tire Shop Owners, Contractor Sentenced in Monterey County WC Cases. SB Woman Booked for Alleged Insurance Fraud. SCIF Criminal Probe Ends With No Charges. Financial Conflicts Influence Medical Research. CWCI Study Shows 3 Percent of WC Physicians Prescribe More Than Half of all Opioids. U.S. Camber of Commerce Places California Business Climate in Lowest Rank. Workers' Compensation - The Sitcom!
March 7 Edition	Brad Hutchins, MPT, CEA, CIEE is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Insurers Report 24% Rise in Suspicious Claims Since 2008. Employer to Serve 10 Years for Workers' Compensation Insurance Fraud and Tax Evasion."Maki Maki" Owners Sentenced in Million Dollar Fraud Case. Daly City Councilwoman Pleads No Contest in Fraud Case. Fourth Hacienda La Puente School District Employee Fraud Case This Year. DWC Posts Updated Utilization Review FAQs. Study Says Widely Read Free Medical Journals Hype Drugs. CWCI Continues Case Law Series With 2011 Update.
February 28 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Johnny Depp Stunt Double Loses Civil Case After Industrial Injury. U.S. Supreme Court to Hear Comp Death Case. Carrier Seeking Contribution Not Bound by Their Stipulations. President of R J Haas Construction Convicted For Fraud. Feds Critical of State Workers' Compensation Systems. Defensive Medicine Common in Orthopedics. Fremont Indemnity Company Former Employees Enjoy Reunion. DWC Announces 2011 Community Service Awards. Recipients.
February 21 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. WCAB Panel Decision Denies Apportionment in Conclusive Presumption Case. Another Federal Judge Asked to Rule on NFL Player's Injury Case. Over 100 Charged In Massive Medicare Fraud Sweep. Three School District Employees Charged With Fraud. The Impact of an Aging Workforce on Occupational Injury and Illness Costs. A.B. 11 May Help California Small Business With Comp Costs. Fusion Surgery Provides Worse Outcomes in Workers' Compensation Patients. Several States Seek Aggressive Comp Reform This Year. WCIRB Recognizes Employers Compensation Insurance For Excellence.
February 14 Edition	David L. Jimenez Esq., is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Court of Appeal Examines General Special Employment Relationship. Whittier Railroad Switchman Awarded $4.9 Million for Industrial Ankle Injury. Statewide Sting Nets Unlicensed Contractors and Workers' Compensation Violators. Employers Reminded to Post Work-Related Injury and Illness Summary. Healthcare Industry Has the Highest Rates of Workplace Violence. Not All Treatment Guidelines are Based on Good Science. 25% of People On Antidepressant Medication Lack Appropriate Psychiatric Diagnosis. Chartis Boosts Reserves by $4.1 Billion. Berkshire Hathaway Expands Comp Coverage to 44 States. DWC Acting Director Carrie Nevans Dies of Kidney Failure.
February 7 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Claim Adjusters Lose Class Action Bid for Overtime Pay. Couple Arrested for Failing to Report Estimated $15 Million in Payroll. Daly City Councilwoman Heads for Trial. Sacramento Postal Worker Pleads Guilty in Fraud Case. DWC Issues Second 15-Day Notice of Revisions to Electronic and Paper Medical Billing Regs. RAND Study: Use of Compound Drugs, Medical Foods, and Co- Packs. Los Angeles DWC Office Launches E-Billboard. Comp Ethics Advisory Committee Reviews 20 Complaints Against WCALJs. DWC Audit Unit 2010 Report Now Available. More States Propose Ban on Work Comp For Illegal Immigrants.
January 31 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. $1.5 Million WCAB Award for Attendant Care Services Overturned. $72,000 Civil Penalty for Employer's Misclassification of Employees Upheld. Self Insured Group Funding Levels Report Shows Problems. Division of Workers' Compensation Posts New Time of Hire Pamphlet. Calif. Contractors Board Cracking Down on Those Who Skirt Workers' Comp Regs. CHSWC Announces the 2011 Young Worker Leadership Academy in Northern California. Bill Precluding Illegal Immigrant Comp Claims Clears Montana House. Medical Costs Drive Up Calif. Municipalities' Workers' Comp.
January 24 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Coachella Valley Physician Convicted of Work Comp Fraud. Owner of Brookdale Inn and Spa Faces Four Years in Prison. NCIS Investigation Leads to Guilty Plea for Comp Fraud. Back Surgery Does Not End Careers for NFL Linemen. Study: Generic Drug Could Save Lives of Many Trauma Victims. Chartis CEO: Company Exited $2 Billion in Workers' Comp Business. Study: U.S. Tort Costs Decline in 2009. Employment Law Conference Set for February 16.
January 17 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. San Diego Federal Judge Orders NFL Work Comp Case to Proceed Under Tennessee Law. Court of Appeal Orders Apportionment When AME Opinion Meets State Standards. WCAB Panel Decision Suggests VR Expert Should Provide Written Report to Support Ogilvie Claim. RAND Study: Workers' Compensation Return to Work Rates Improved Over Last Decade. Insurance Industry Sees Slight Uptick In Employment. Surgical Checklists That Prevent Medical Errors Are Not Often Used. California Man Arrested for Insurance Fraud, Grand Theft. American Claims Management Promotes Three to Senior VP.
January 10 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. Public Comments About the CSHWC Lien Report Show a Variety of Views About the "Lien Problem." CHSWC Study Wants More Workers' Compensation System Monitoring. DWC Publishes New Proposed Electronic Billing Regulations. Federal Workers' Comp Beats Retirement Benefits. Affiliate of Sedgwick CMS Acquires a Controlling Stake in Progressive Medical. Cunningham Lindsey Acquires Loss Adjusting Unit of GAB Robins NA. MRI Can't Tell Whether Knee Cartilage Can Be Fixed. Mulryan to Replace Cain on California State Fund Board.
January 3 Edition	Rene Thomas Folse, JD, Ph.D.is the host for this edition which reports on the following news stories. AIG to Pay $146M Over Workers' Compensation Lawsuit. Owner of Los Angeles Janitorial Company Arrested for Premium Fraud. Are Doctors Getting Rich With Unnecessary Fusion Surgeries? Patients Knowingly Taking Placebo Medications Got Better. Unusual Coalition Pushes for Restrictions on Compounded Drugs. Montana Could Be First State to Withhold Workers' Comp. From Illegals. San Jose Work Comp Software Company Thrives. Decline in Comp Claims Coming to an End?

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