Recently, we had the pleasure of speaking to one of our long-time members, Stephanie Bloomingdale of the Wisconsin State AFL-CIO about how she came to know and join the Workers Compensation Research Institute (WCRI). Stephanie is the secretary-treasurer for the Wisconsin State AFL-CIO with more than 20 years of experience in labor as an organizer, negotiator, trainer, and activist.

1) How did you first learn about WCRI? 

I was introduced to the work of the WCRI while serving on the Wisconsin Workers Compensation Advisory Council. We rely on the WCRI because we need well-researched and timely data to ensure that Wisconsin law is best supporting injured workers.

2) What value do you derive from being a member of WCRI?

I know the WCRI can be counted on to provide the hard, independent, and factual data we need to make good decisions in this time of ever-changing dynamics. The WCRI is an important and valued partner of all stakeholders in the field of workers’ compensation. As chair of the labor side of the Advisory Council, I rely on the broad scope of data and research provided by the WCRI to make informed decisions on behalf of injured workers in Wisconsin.

3) What is your favorite WCRI study/research area?

Favorite WCRI study? There’s too many to choose from. Most recently, we found the WCRI research on opioid use to be extremely helpful in developing a new set of initiatives for our agreed-upon bill. When a worker gets injured on the job, we need to make sure he or she has the absolute best medical advice and full and unfettered access to alternative forms of treatments such as physical therapy, trigger point massage, acupuncture and new virtual reality therapy.

4) Can you describe a moment when WCRI’s research was really helpful?

During intensive negotiations of the Wisconsin Workers Compensation Advisory Council, we relied on key data points from the WCRI to improve Wisconsin’s fair and stable system.

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Interested in becoming a member of WCRI? Click here to learn about the benefits of membership, and then use the form below to contact us with your interest or any questions you have. 

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