Obesity among workers increases the cost of workers’ compensation

As the impact of obesity on health of individuals has become clear from medical studies, the employers wonder what implications have obesity got for workers compensation claims. Research conducted in this regard has shown that the workers compensation claims that involve obese workers are more costly than those involving normal healthy workers. In fact according to the research conducted by NCCI, the workers compensation claims are three times higher when the claimants are obese. These findings are based on claims filed over a nine-year period in 36 states.

According to these studies, workers having BMI (body mass index) of 40 and above filled 45% more claims, missed work 8 times more than their healthy counterparts and their workers compensation claims costs were five times higher.

Those having a BMI of 25 to 29.9 are classified as overweight under the study. It was found that these overweight workers filled 9% more claims and missed 3.5 times more work days.  Also the cost of their workers compensation claims was 1.5 times higher than those having a normal BMI (18.5-24.9).

These studies will help the employers to have an idea that how much obesity contributing towards an increase in the cost of workers’ compensation. Based on these studies they can make rough estimates and look into the matter seriously.

Professionals at Lyle B. Masnikoff and Associates, P.A will fight to get you the medical or wage benefits you are entitled to under the law. Employers and Insurance Companies have professionals working for them and there are no fees or costs until you recover. It‘s time for you to hire us to protect your rights.