AgdaPkt 2009-06-15 clsd and spc - Laserfiche WebLink

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6.10 Page 2 . Identifies and implements cost-containment strategies on employee workers' compensation and employer liability issues. . Arranges periodic file reviews to ensure timely and professional file closures, settlements, and adequate setting of reserves for claim funding. . Maintains positive relationships with medical providers and industrial clinics. Athens Administrators has provided workers' compensation administrative services to self-insured entities for over 30 years (since 1976). The public agency clientele includes: Cities in San Mateo County and surrounding areas, Fire Protection Districts, Transportation Districts, Housing Authorities, Utility Districts and Water Districts. Athens Administrators has an extensive level of expertise in dealing with Safety personnel and the administration of complex workers' compensation benefits. In addition to the above criteria, Athens Administrators works in a "paperless environment" with a fully automated Claims Management system. This will offer the City "real-time" data as it relates to claims and status of employees off of work due to work related injuries. Athens has a strong Quality Control Program that includes managed care/medical cost containment strategies, medical provider networks, nurse case management services, utilization review and bill review services. . In addition, Athens offers state-of-the-art technology through a web-based claims management system that will allow staff to closely monitor claims by accessing up-to-date status reports and point-in-time financial information. Athens will also provide the City with comprehensive annual reports including global and detailed analysis of all claims, risk management, safety, and financial program evaluations. Based on the services and cost containment strategies offered by Athens, the additional contract expense is justified and will be more than recaptured in effective claims management. Given Athens interview panel ratings, favorable references, and being rated in the top 5 of all TPA's audited by the California Division of Workers' Compensation, staff believes that Athens Administrators will provide the City with exceptional workers' compensation administrative services. It is anticipated that through effective claims management, the City will experience a cost reduction in claims management for its self-insured workers' compensation program. Therefore, staff is recommending that the City enter into an agreement with Athens Administrators to act as the City's TPA for workers' compensation services at a cost not-to-exceed $137,000 effective July 1, 2009 through June 30,2010. ALTERNATIVES Review the proposals of the other TPA'S and direct staff to select an alternate TPA. FISCAL IMPACT The cost for the contract for TPA services provided by Athens Administrators is $137,000; these funds are included in the recommended FY 2009-2010 Workers' Compensation budget.