Citation

Sulzenko-Laurie B, Riis V, Grubisic E. J. Occup. Environ. Med. 2010; 52(4): 450-455.

Affiliation

Department of Policy Development, Insurance Bureau of Canada; and Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2010, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1097/JOM.0b013e3181dbfa7d

PMID

20357673

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:: To monitor the impact of auto insurance regulatory reforms on the no-fault injury claims experience of Alberta auto insurers. METHODS:: Retrospective file review and abstraction of data from individual auto insurer claim files. RESULTS:: Reforms were associated with change in diagnostic frequencies as well as higher health utilization, average cost per treatment episode, cost per claimant, claim closure rate, and reduced incidence of disputes. In spite of these positive indicators, over 40% of claims were still open at 6-month post-injury. CONCLUSIONS:: Regulatory reforms in auto insurance systems may affect access to care, health utilization, costs, and outcomes. Stakeholders must continue to monitor the effect of regulatory change on health and insurance practices.

Language: en