To WCRI Members and Friends:

As new challenges emerge—ranging from severe weather events and policy changes to shifts in the healthcare system impacting workers’ compensation—it’s essential to rely on independent, data-driven research to stay informed about how the system is evolving. At WCRI, we remain dedicated to providing unbiased, trusted information, funded by stakeholders who support our mission to deliver research free from recommendations or opinions.

Over the past year, WCRI published more than 40 studies on key issues, including psychosocial factors in outcomes, attorney involvement, high-cost claims, and more. Our benchmarking studies have helped track important trends across states, such as changes in medical pricing, drug payments, and cost-containment strategies. These efforts assist policymakers and stakeholders in making well-informed decisions.

One study that attracted attention this year explored the impact of excessive heat on work-related injuries. It was featured in outlets like the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and Newsweek, and contributed to the development of a proposed Occupational Safety and Health Administration rule on heat injury prevention. This research exemplifies how our work provides valuable information that helps inform policy decisions and promote worker safety.

WCRI’s reach continues to grow. We had more than 1,500 webinar registrants last year, a sold-out annual conference, and more than 57,000 views of our YouTube videos. Our research was cited nearly 400 times in the media, reflecting the increasing demand for our objective, evidence-based information. 

Looking ahead, we will continue to address key issues affecting the future of workers’ compensation, including recreational marijuana laws, the aging workforce, emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, and medical workforce shortages.

We are grateful to our members, whose data, funding, and expertise enable our success. If you believe in our mission, we encourage you to introduce just one new member to WCRI. Expanding our membership allows us to conduct research in more states and explore a wider range of topics, increasing our ability to create a meaningful impact on the workers’ compensation system.

Thank you for your continued support. We are excited to continue this journey and look forward to achieving even more in the year ahead.

Sincerely,

Ramona Tanabe

President & CEO

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