L&I Makes Available Online Delivery of Claims Materials
If enough injured workers, employers, and health care providers opt in, the agency could save at least $1.3 million in the first year alone.
Washington state's Department of Labor & Industries announced it will allow customers to opt for electronic delivery of most claims-related mailings. L&I estimates cutting claims-related paper mailings by an expected 30 percent in the first year will save more than $1.3 million, and annual savings in postage, paper, and handling will increase to $2 million if half of the mailings go electronic.
The state Legislature in 2011 approved the department’s request for electronic as well as paper correspondence. L&I sought permission because it was hearing complaints from health care providers about having to open and process large volumes of mail; state law considers the injured worker, the employer, and the health care provider to be the legal parties to every claim, and a "cc" of every mailing still is required.
"Reducing paperwork for health-care providers has been an important goal for L&I," said L&I Director Joel Sacks. "The easier it is for them to do business with us, the more time and resources they have to care for injured workers and other patients."L&I customers can sign up for the new service at www.eCorrespondence.Lni.wa.gov.