Physician Dispensing, High Replacement Wages Hurting Economy, Think Tank Says

The Illinois Policy Institute says physician dispensing and high wage-replacement rates are threatening the state’s long-term economic health. Pointing to the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission’s 2015 annual report, the institute’s Michael Lucci, vice president of policy, said Illinois’ injured workers spend an average of 50% more time off the job than workers in neighboring states. The average time off for a temporary injury in Illinois is 18.4 weeks, versus 15.7 weeks in Michigan, 11.6 weeks in Iowa, 10.9 weeks in Wisconsin and 10.5 weeks in Indiana...