SERVICE REVIEW OF WORKERS’ COMPENSATION BOARD

In keeping with a campaign promise, the Minister responsible for the Workers' Compensation Board (WCB) Rob Norris announced today that the government has directed the WCB to initiate a best practices review to ensure its services are responsive to the needs of Saskatchewan employers and employees.

"As promised in the campaign, this WCB service review is intended to ensure that Saskatchewan people are receiving the best possible service with respect to claims administration, employer services and injury prevention," Norris said. "Committing to a high level of service will contribute to our goal of a stronger Saskatchewan and a better life for the people of this province."

The review will evaluate the level of service provided to workers and employers through the WCB's claims administration process, including injury claims, employer services and injury prevention. The scope of the review may also include other areas of the WCB that support the work of frontline departments. Comparative research will identify leading benchmarks and practices of other compensation boards and related industries.

"The Board shares the Government's desire to ensure the WCB is delivering the best possible service to injured workers and employers," Workers' Compensation Board chairman David Eberle said. "The Board looks forward to receiving the final report in September."

The WCB will issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) to seek a qualified research agency or consulting firm to conduct the review. The review is to be completed and a final report submitted to the WCB by September 21, 2009.

To learn more about the WCB, visit www.wcbsask.com or call 1-800-667-7590. Information on injury prevention can be found at www.worksafesask.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Kathy Young
Executive Council
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0425
Email: kathy.young@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-526-8927