At Diversified Insurance Industries, we are committed to providing top-notch coverage to Home Healthcare agencies. We understand the risks that come with this line of work and the importance of protecting our clients' health and well-being.
One of the biggest challenges in the home healthcare industry is the high rate of workers' compensation claims. Home healthcare workers are at risk of a range of injuries and illnesses, from slips and falls, to back strains and exposure to infectious diseases. These claims can be costly for both the worker and the employer, so it's important to be proactive and take steps to prevent them from happening in the first place.
Here are 7 strategies we recommend for lowering workers' compensation claims in the home healthcare industry:
Training and Education
Providing comprehensive training and education to home healthcare workers is essential for preventing workplace injuries. Workers should be trained in proper lifting techniques, body mechanics, infection control, and other safety measures. Ongoing training should be provided to ensure that workers are up to date on the latest safety protocols.
Proper Equipment and Supplies
Home healthcare workers need access to the right equipment and supplies to do their job safely. This includes items such as slip-resistant shoes, gloves, masks, and other protective gear.
Safety Protocols
Establishing safety protocols and guidelines is critical for preventing workplace injuries. This includes policies around lifting and moving patients, infection control, and emergency procedures. Employers should regularly review and update these protocols to ensure they are working effectively and reducing their exposure to claims.
Employee Wellness Programs
Promoting employee wellness can help prevent workplace injuries and illnesses. This includes initiatives such as ergonomic assessments, stress reduction programs, and health screenings. Employers should have a system in place to ensure that employees are taking their mandatory breaks, such as for lunch.
Risk Management
Having a solid risk management program in place is essential for preventing workers' compensation claims. There are many possible risks in the home healthcare industry, where your workers are constantly in environments you do not control. Creating your risk management program includes identifying and assessing common and potential risks, implementing measures to reduce those risks, and having a plan in place for when accidents do occur.
Conducting Background Checks
Incidents could occur from the natural risks of home health care, or from hiring a home health care employee who is not reliable in providing safe care.
Conducting background checks is a crucial strategy for lowering workers' compensation claims in the home healthcare industry. In this line of work, home healthcare workers are entrusted with caring for vulnerable patients in their homes. As such, it is imperative that employers conduct thorough background checks on all employees to ensure that they are trustworthy.
Background checks can include criminal background checks, as well as checks for previous employment records and references. Criminal background checks can help identify any red flags or potential risks, such as violent or abusive behavior, drug or alcohol abuse, or theft. Employment and reference checks can provide insight into a candidate's work history and performance, as well as their reliability and professionalism.
Promote Transparency & Communication
Encouraging open communication is a helpful strategy for lowering workers' compensation claims in the home healthcare industry. Home healthcare workers face a range of risks and hazards in their work, including exposure to infectious diseases, slips and falls, and musculoskeletal injuries. Encouraging open communication and creating a culture of safety can help identify and address potential hazards before they become a problem.
One way to encourage open communication is to provide regular safety meetings and training sessions. These meetings can provide a forum for workers to ask questions, voice concerns, and share best practices for staying safe on the job. Employers should also make it clear that employees are encouraged to report any potential hazards or incidents, and that their reports will be taken seriously and addressed promptly.
Speak with Josh Today
At Diversified Insurance Industries, we are committed to using our expertise and specialty programs to help our clients lower their workers' compensation claims and keep their workers safe. By implementing these strategies, employers can help prevent workplace injuries and create a safer, healthier work environment for their employees.
To learn more about your options for your home healthcare Insurance coverage, contact Josh Haisfield - DII's Home Healthcare+ Specialist. He can help you find the coverage that's right for you. https://www.dii-ins.com/specialty-programs/dii-home-health-care-plus/
Contact Josh today to get your customized quote!
P: 410-319-0642 | C. 410-493-4874 | Josh.haisfield@dii-ins.com