Informer | December #1

When the IMWCA receives a claim weeks or even months after medical treatment has already occurred—or when we need prior medical records to determine compensability—the time it takes to gather bills and records can increase significantly.

In these situations, we must have the injured worker sign and return a medical authorization form before we can move forward. Once that authorization is received, we request records from the medical provider. Many providers now use third-party medical record copying services, which often require pre-payment before releasing any information.

The process typically looks like this:

1. The copying service sends IMWCA an invoice.
2. IMWCA mails a check to the service.
3. After payment is received and processed, the service sends the requested medical records.

As you can imagine, this is not a quick turnaround. In some cases, obtaining medical records can take several months. Even when pre-payments or authorizations are not required, we are seeing a general increase in the time it takes to receive medical bills and records from providers.

How Delays Affect Claims

While a claim is under investigation, IMWCA cannot authorize medical treatment or pay lost-time benefits. Delays in reporting—especially when medical care has already occurred—slow down the entire process for the injured worker, the employer, and the claims team.

Your Role in Helping the Process Run Smoothly

A timely claim submission is the single biggest factor in avoiding delays. When claims are reported immediately, the investigation can begin right away, medical records can be obtained more efficiently, and benefits can be processed in a timely manner.

Please encourage all employees to report injuries immediately or within 24 hours. Quick reporting helps ensure that injured workers receive the care and benefits they need without unnecessary delay.

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