Early Intervention

Three point contact, commonly referred to as early intervention, is the process of gathering information from the employer, claimant and primary physician early in the lost time claim to control claim costs and achieve the best possible resolution. The goal of the case manager is to get the injured worker the medical services required to facilitate a prompt return to work.

Why contact the employer?

Why contact the claimant?

Why contact the medical provider?

Attention Employers: File claim forms promptly to avoid penalties that may impact your premium and to help NYSIF manage the case effectively to control claim costs.

Why contact the employer?

NYSIF’s case manager contacts the employer to provide information beyond what is contained in the C-2. This allows the case manager to

• Acknowledge receipt of the claim and establish rapport with the policyholder;
• Ascertain special concerns relevant to the claim, claimant, prior conditions or work problems;
• Establish strategy for bringing the claim to timely resolution;
• Discuss possible light duty options that may be available or created for the claimant in a medically approved early-return-to-work program.

Back to Top

Why contact the claimant?

NYSIF’s case manager or investigator contacts the claimant as close as possible to the time of the accident to

• Explore events leading up to the injury while memories of the event are still fresh;
• Ask pertinent follow-up questions;
• Determine the nature of the injury and specific body parts injured;
• Demonstrate NYSIF’s concern, establish a positive working relationship, and explain requirements necessary to expedite payment of the claim.

Back to Top

Why contact the medical provider?

The case manager or a NYSIF nurse contacts the primary physician, depending upon the severity of the injury, to

• Obtain their opinion on assessment, diagnosis and prognosis of the injury;
• Obtain information regarding prior injuries impacting treatment decisions or potential relief under state-administered special funds;
• Discuss the anticipated treatment plan, and confirm and expedite proper treatment for the specific type of injury;
• Discuss estimated length of disability and possible return to work;
• Information received will help project accurate costs, efficiency of medical services and cost containment;
• Establish a positive working relationship with the medical provider.

Back to Top