Posted on Oct 22, 2012
On September 17, 2012, the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry implemented Release 1 of the Workers’ Compensation Automation and Integration System (WCAIS).
WCAIS is a web-based information system that integrates the businesses processes of the Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board (WCAB), the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) and the Workers’ Compensation Office of Adjudication (WCOA).
The goal is to provide 24-hour online information access, enable electronic communication and manage documents. System users will include injured workers, insurance carriers, third-party administrators, attorneys, employers, medical service providers, accident and illness prevention providers, court reporters and interpreters.
Release 1 provides functionality for the WCAB and Helpline. System users will be able to file appeals, petitions and documents online with the WCAB. In addition, they will be able to upload documents, search and view information regarding the status of appeals.
Release 2, which will go live in the fall of 2013, expands the functionality to include business processes at the BWC and WCOA. It will also mandate filing of most claims-related forms through electronic data interchange (EDI).
Workers injured on the job and unable to work are often in serious financial difficulty because they are not receiving a paycheck. The WCAIS is designed to provide faster communication and streamlined business processes to save everyone involved time and money.
Have you been denied workers’ compensation benefits or been pressured to settle your worker’s compensation claim? Contact a worker’s compensation attorney at Schmidt Kramer. The toll free number is (717) 888-8888 and the consultation is free. Alternatively, you may wish to download the book Who Pays the Bills When You Are Injured at Work? for additional information.