Occupational Disability Claims Specialist

Position Title: Occupational Disability Claims Specialist 

Division: Corporate Services

Group: Non-Union                                                                                                                                                            

Immediate Supervisor: Corporate Manager, Human Resources

Position Summary The Occupational Disability Claims Specialist coordinates all work-related disability issues and accommodations within the County in accordance with existing legislation and County of Lambton policies & procedures. The role also provides comprehensive and professional advice, coaching and counselling on Human Resources management services including staff relations and collective agreements as it pertains to Disability Claims management.

Job Duties and Responsibilities Disability Claims Management:

• Manage all active WSIB work related claims and return to work programs. Prepare all required documentation for WSIB to establish and maintain claims as legislated and in compliance with WSIB rules and regulations; complete forms fully, accurately and within prescribed time frames with all pertinent information including any required earnings information, schedule information, concerns over claims etc. Maintain regular contact with WSIB Claims Adjudication to ensure claim and appeal decisions made in a timely manner. Work with WSIB, Employee(s), Supervisors/Managers, physicians, treating practitioners in facilitating the early return to work; prepare and distribute letters to request additional information; review responses and implement return to work and accommodations based on the responses and discussions. Advise when Independent Medical Examinations (IME) are required and discuss with Corporate Manager, HR and supervisor(s) for final decision; research appropriate IME providers and set up appointments, prepare correspondence; review IME report and advise supervisors/managers on appropriate course of action. Communicate to payroll required payment for WSIB wage continuation for lost time claims as applicable, request supervisors update timesheets accordingly. Act as a mediator between the union representative, the Third-Party Providers, the individual and the responsible manager to resolve differences where a return-to-work impasse has occurred. Negotiate and prepare return to work agreement in accordance with all applicable legislation, including Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, WSIB, Human Rights, and applicable legislation. Resolve complex issues (i.e.: claim denials, employees refusing to return to work) and advise Corporate Manager, HR when applicable. Train and educate supervisors and managers on their roles and the appropriate courses of action for an employee’s accommodation and early RTW plans. Develop specific case management plans, checklists and timing milestones regarding time duration and specific dates for every disability claimant to aid recovery or resolution of employee health problems. Decide on and communicate the pro-active management of major disability claim cases including the measured steps to employee termination or separation. Facilitate Modified Work/Accommodation meetings with management, injured/ill workers, union reps, WSIB Claims Adjudicators. Monitor the progress of the injured/ill worker by ensuring the County receives regular updates on prognosis and functional abilities; request progress updates from supervisors; ensure supervisors hold regular update meetings; review meeting minutes for accuracy and recommend changes if required; communicate progress as needed; discuss and resolve concerns. Involve Labour Relations Consultants while maintaining confidentiality; if labour relations issues begin to arise that require their involvement. Prepare and maintain statistical reports on WSIB Costs, Lost time Claims. Review and make suggestions on new policies and procedures in areas of assigned responsibility. Develop and delivers training, education and awareness programs focused on disability management, attendance management and early intervention to management, union groups and lower-tier affiliates. Prepare statistical summaries for trend analysis and future planning. Provides cost-benefit analysis of the program’s different courses of action as a measure of the County's work-related Disability Claims. Provide WSIB Claims management support to assigned lower tiers as required.

General:

• Incumbents must keep up-to-date on all relevant legislation, collective bargaining agreements, County Policies and Procedures, etc. ensuring that these are implemented as prescribed. Incumbents must possess the physical ability to meet the duties and responsibilities of the job description and/or the requirements identified within the position's Physical Demands Analysis.

These describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the incumbent in this classification. They are not an exhaustive list of all job duties in the classification. Other duties may be assigned.

Supervision Requirements

Direct Supervision: None

Indirect Supervision: None

Functional Authority: None

Credentials Required

Minimum Formal Education

• University degree in Human Resources or Business Administration from an accredited post-secondary institution, or a combination of education and experience in a relevant discipline, related to areas of service provision. Designation as a Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) is preferred.

Experience

• A minimum of two years of Occupational Disability management experience, preferably within a unionized municipal environment. Knowledge of Labour Relations and the ability to interpret collective agreements.

Please visit our website at www.lambtononline.ca/jobs and search for posting J0324-1089 to apply. Posting closes April 8, 2024 at 11:59 pm.