Q:  What is Workers' Compensation Group Rating?

A: Group rating permits employers in the same or a similar industry to "group" their claims experience for rating purposes.  By pooling companies with good experience, the group will attain a better rate than the individual rate of its members.

Q:  Are all Workers' Comp Group Rating Programs the same?

A:  No.  Hundreds of workers' compensation group rating programs are offered throughout Ohio by many different sponsoring organizations.  Each group program offers its own savings rate. Even if you are currently enrolled in a workers' compensation group rating program, it pays to compare.  You could potentially save thousands more with a CCI group rating program.

Q:  How is coverage provided under a Group Rating Program?

A:  Coverage is still provided through the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC).  Each member still maintains their own policy number and payments are still made to the Bureau.  The BWC prints the discountaed rate on the payroll report automatically.

Q:  Can you only enroll once a year, and is this true of all groups?

A:  Yes, the BWC regulations dictate this.  Quotes are provided throughout the fall, with actual enrollment taking place in February.  We are currently accepting applications for the upcoming BWC plan year July 1 through June 30.

Q:  Is there a cost to participate in the program?

A: Each member is charged an administrative fee to be in the program.  By enrolling in a group rating program, you are also hiring a plan administrator, such as CCI, to provide claims cost control services.  Details of the administrative fee will be provided along with the proposal.  Also, you must become a paid member of the sponsoring organization.

Q:  If I am uncertain whether my company would qualify, should I apply?

A:  Yes, each year the Bureau assigns new rates based on an employer's payroll and experience.  A company who did not previously qualify due to a penalty rating may qualify if their experience improves.

Q:  How will I receive my savings?

A:  Coverage is with the Bureau of Workers' Compensation and the premium statements that come from the Bureau will reflect the group discounted rate.  The rate will begin on July 1.  Because Ohio workers' compensation premiums are paid in arrears, your first discounted premium payment will be paid in January of the following year.  See the Group Rating Calendar for a timeline.

Q:  If I enroll with a group rating program, will I be automatically enrolled with an MCO?

A:  Group rating is completely different than an MCO.  Group rating provides a discount on your workers' compensation premium.  A workers' compensation managed care organization (MCO) works directly with injured employees to ensure they receive proper medical treatment. MCO fees are paid directly by the BWC.  Employers choose their MCO every two years, or are assigned one if no choice is made.  Every employer in Ohio must have an MCO.  Group rating is an optional program, in which employers must qualify for a discount.

Q:  What is the difference between a TPA and an MCO?

A:  Third Party Administrators (TPA), such as CCI, administer group rating savings programs and work with employers' claims to control costs.  An MCO works directly with the injured employee to pay medical bills and ensure proper treatment.  Working with a TPA is optional.  However, hiring a TPA is an effective way to control costs through claims managment and group rating programs.  Every employer in Ohio must have an MCO, which is paid for directly by the BWC.