MEC Connect

This episode features guest Tina D'Andrea discussing the critical topic of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the workplace. With over 25 years of experience in workers compensation, Tina offers deep insights into the symptoms, diagnosis, and effective treatment of PTSD, particularly among professions with high public interaction like first responders, medical personnel, and teachers. D...

Hosts Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke are joined by Jeff Pack, a Medical Management Consultant at MEC, to discuss failed back syndrome. Jeff shares his experience dealing with complex back injury claims that often start as sprains or strains but can lead to multiple surgeries and the diagnosis of failed back syndrome. The episode explores common trends in these cases, potential interventions, and...

Hosts Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke welcome Dana Dorsey from MEC's Medical Management Unit to discuss sprains and strains. Dana, with her extensive background in field case management, dives into the definitions, treatments, and prevention of these injuries, highlighting how they can lead to complex claims if not managed properly from the outset. The episode focuses on practical advice for...

They explore key differences from catastrophic claims, focusing on disputed issues, medical care management, and disability assessment. Dan shares insights on the use of Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs) and emphasizes the value of involving opposing counsel. The episode highlights the need for a collaborative approach to improve outcomes for injured employees.  Discussion Points : Investiga...

In this episode of MEC Connect, hosts Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke sit down with MEC Senior Claims Analyst Kam Garrett to delve into the complex world of migratory claims. Kam shares a real-life example of a migratory claim that spanned over a decade and the challenges involved in handling such cases. They also discuss recurring trends, resources, and strategies for managing migratory claims ef...

Hosts Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke interview MEC’s Sherrie Murray about the challenges of "migratory claims"—claims involving injuries that start simple but spiral into complex cases involving endless treatments and prescriptions. In this episode, we explain MEC’s approach to these thorny claims, focusing on appropriateness of care, prescription issues, and ultimately settling cases....

In our final episode of Season 1, Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke speak with Geoff Jones, Senior Claims Attorney at Midwest Employers Casualty (MEC) about resolution of catastrophic claims. Topics covered include: If and when a catastrophic claim can be settled. Situations where a settlement is not possible or recommended.   Considerations for indemnity or medical only settlements. The people invo...

In episode 8, Kelly Loos, Senior National Catastrophic Claims Analyst at Midwest Employers Casualty (MEC), teams up with Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke for a conversation about claim management once an injured employee has achieved medical stability. Topics covered include: Factors that need to be addressed before a CAT claim can be considered stable. Who is involved with following a catastrophic...

In episode 7, Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke welcome back Phyllis Ramondetta, Senior National Catastrophic Medical Consultant at Midwest Employers Casualty (MEC).  They will discuss the factors involved for an injured employee to achieve the goal of returning home after a catastrophic injury. Topics covered include: Services and modifications that need to be in place before the employee’s return...

In episode 6, Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke welcome Phyllis Ramondetta, Senior National Catastrophic Medical Consultant at Midwest Employers Casualty (MEC), for a discussion on what to expect after the acute phase of a catastrophic injury. Topics covered include: Types of rehabilitation options available after hospital discharge. Injuries that benefit from post-acute rehabilitation programs. Cha...

In episode 5, Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke welcome back Midwest Employers Casualty’s (MEC) Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Fernando Branco.  The three discuss the significant role Centers of Excellence (COE) play in the rehabilitation of catastrophically injured employees. Topics covered include: Explain why MEC may recommend a COE for the treatment of a catastrophically injured employee. Differenti...

In this installment of MEC Connect, Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke chat with Midwest Employers Casualty’s (MEC) Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Fernando Branco.  Dr. Branco addresses the importance of proper medical treatment to achieve the best outcome for the injured employee. Topics discussed include: Initial steps of a successful catastrophic medical care plan. Trauma center classifications. The i...

In Episode 3, Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke welcome Dan Dalton Chief Claims and Regulatory Counsel at Midwest Employers Casualty (MEC).  Dan addresses the benefits of having a lawyer involved in catastrophic (CAT) claim investigations.   Topics covered include: Necessity of attorney retention and involvement on day one in catastrophic losses.  The “grand bargain” of the no-fault system of worker...

Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke welcome back Courtney Waltz, Senior National Catastrophic Claim Analyst at Midwest Employers Casualty (MEC), to continue their discussion about MEC’s unique approach to CAT claims management.   Topics covered include: Why the right team matters. How MEC has utilized technology to enhance the CAT claims round table process. The importance of communication to enhance...

Welcome to the first episode of MEC Connect! Special guest Courtney Waltz, Senior National Catastrophic Claim Analyst at Midwest Employers Casualty (MEC), joins cohosts Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke for the first in a series of discussions about catastrophic (CAT) workers’ compensation claims. Topics covered include: ·         How the MEC dedicated CAT Claims team defines CAT claims  ·         W...

Welcome to MEC Connect! We’re excited about the launch of our new podcast. Check out the trailer to get a sneak peek on what you can expect in Season 1!  Send us a text and let us know what you think!