CWCI Reports 9.3% Increase in Med-Legal Costs in 2014

The average amount paid per medical-legal service in 2014 increased 9.3% to $1,628 compared to $1,490 in 2013, according to the California Workers' Compensation Institute. While the percentage of indemnity claims with med-legal services has been relatively stable, average payment for these services have increased 66.3% since 2007, CWCI said in a research note published Monday. CWCI said its analysis of payments for seven medical-legal billing codes found increased use of services billed in 15-minute increments and reduced use of services reimbursed with a flat fee. Comprehensive evaluat...