Are you driven to keep people safe? That’s what we do every day at Missouri Employers Mutual.
We’ve created a casual, values-driven work culture that’s making a positive impact on the way people live and work. This is a place where you can grow with confidence — because that’s what safety and success really mean to us.
SUMMARY:
Under the general direction of the Unit Claims Manager and/or the Regional Claims Manager, investigates, evaluates, negotiates, and settles assigned limited exposure as well as some complex Medical Only claims, following sound claims handling techniques and in accordance with company claims philosophy, statutory requirements and quality assurance standards.
This is a Professional level position, able to work independently, with moderate supervision and within assigned authority.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education -
High School graduation or equivalent is required. A Bachelor's degree is preferred.
Experience:
At least one year of directly related work experience in a medical or insurance setting. Must have experience processing insurance claims.
Designations/Certifications:
AIC or other insurance designation is preferred. None required.
NON-MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Acts in accordance with MEM's vision, mission and values.
• Investigates assigned claims for coverage, promptly notifying Corporate Claims of any issues, so that MEM's position can be evaluated and appropriate correspondence issued.

Documents every claim with a coverage analysis notepad.

• Investigates assigned claims for compensability and any applicable drug/safety/alcohol penalties, in accordance with the appropriate state statutes. This includes taking verbal, written or recorded statements from key witnesses and securing any and all records to document and support the decision made.
• Oversees the medical aspects of the files to ensure quality care in a cost effective manner. This includes working with network providers, referring to Utilization Management, engaging Nurse Case Management when appropriate and securing special opinions as needed (such as Specialists, Independent Medical Evaluations, Second Opinions, Functional Capacity Evaluations, Medical Director input, permanent restrictions and lifetime medical needs). Reviews and processes medical bills in a timely manner.
• Effectively manages disability via the Return-to-Work Program, which includes securing job descriptions and Policyholder education about the benefits of providing light duty. Ensures accuracy of disability payments by securing wage statements and correctly calculating rates,

Which may include securing and analyzing tax information. Ensures benefit payments are timely and in accordance with statutory requirements so that there is no exposure to penalties
or interest.

• Remains alert to opportunities when surveillance may be an effective method for either managing disability or supporting Special Investigation needs. Secures approval for this process, evaluates an appropriate vendor and manages the cost/benefit balance while using

this tool.

• Identifies and investigates potential fraud and works with the Special Investigation Unit investigator to provide necessary documentation that may support a referral to the state. When required, provide legal testimony in support of cases that are being prosecuted.
• Identifies subrogation, investigates and documents third party liability in order to maximize potential recovery dollars.
• Recognizes and acts upon opportunities when a Face-to-Face visit would provide maximum value to investigate, establish rapport or minimize litigation potential. Engage Field Service Manager to assist when needed.
• Establishes and maintains claim reserves, which in the aggregate are sufficient to discharge ultimate corporate liability. This requires timely responsiveness to changing claim circumstances, with avoidance of stair-stepping or significant adverse development. File documentation should be sufficient to explain the rationale for reserve changes. Secure approval for any reserves beyond stated authority. Completes Serious Claim Notices according to guidelines.
• Obtains medical disability ratings in accordance with statutory requirements. Evaluates a reasonable settlement range for claim resolution and negotiates settlements (either directly with the Injured Worker or, if represented, with their attorney) within approved authority levels.
• Directs attorneys in preparing assigned claims for defense, and manages legal throughout claim to final resolution/settlement. Collaborates with counsel to determine legal plan of action, which may include depositions, medical examinations and vocational evaluations. Ensures MEM litigation guidelines are followed throughout the process and in review/approval of legal bills submitted.
• Recognizes claims with Medicare exposure and works with defense counsel to protect Medicare's interests. Obtain Medicare Set-Aside Trusts from approved vendors and send claims to Centers for Medicare Services for approval, when appropriate. Keeps abreast of Medicare changes.
• Recognizes appropriate opportunities for structured settlements and employs the necessary resources to develop and negotiate this type of settlement.
• Documents files with all relevant facts and actions taken, action plan, necessary reports, investigative notes, and other data as may be required by the state Workers' Compensation Law, Federal Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act, the State Insurance Department and MEM guidelines.
• Provides requested updates to Management on high profile or high dollar claims.
• Ensures system data integrity by entering and maintaining accurate information in required fields.
• Prepare and present claims for Corporate Plan of Action meetings and Account Claim Reviews as requested.
• Maintain cross-departmental teamwork and communication with Underwriting, Premium Consultation and Loss Prevention. Completes Risk Alerts and engages Loss Prevention Consultants as appropriate.
• Provides appropriate level of service to both internal and external customers, communicating claim status to Producers and Policyholders as requested. Complies with standards for service and prompt contacts. Takes prompt action to respond to and resolve complaints and problems. Assists Policyholders and agents with questions or training needs as requested.
• Manages assigned caseload effectively and in accordance with productivity standards, prioritizing workflow tasks in order to move cases to final disposition.
• Ability to learn and apply concepts of dual-jurisdiction.
• Ability to effectively communicate and work with individuals who may present challenging situations or behavior, which can sometimes include cultural and/or language barriers.
• Performs other duties as may be dictated by office/department/corporate circumstances

Our home office is located in vibrant Columbia, Missouri — #6 in Livability’s 2019 Best Places to Live.