AASCIF - Summer 2002 News: Message from the President

Welcome to the summer issue of the AASCIF News. I’m pleased to report that the annual AASCIF conference held in New York from August 4 through the 8th was a resounding success. The theme of the conference was “Open for Business – Against All Odds.” After the terrible events of 9-11, British Columbia’s Workers’ Compensation Board, which is scheduled to host next year’s event in Vancouver, BC generously offered to switch dates with New York. NYSIF President Ken Ross declined the offer, demonstrating the ‘can do’ attitude that New Yorkers are famous for. Ken and his staff then proceeded to put together one of the most successful conferences in AASCIF history. I applaud their dedication and stand in awe of their determination and skill.

The conference covered a wide variety of useful topics including disaster recovery, policyholder service teams, controverted claims, anti-fraud measures, human resources, information technology and e-business. One of the most topical and thought-provoking sessions explored how the New York Fund successfully tackled the problem of ‘getting back in business’ after the 9-11 attack. Roger Crawford was our motivational speaker and is no stranger beating the odds. Roger has faced multiple physical problems as a result of birth defects. Roger is living proof that it’s possible to overcome the most staggering obstacles through determination and desire. The topic of mental stress claims provided food for thought, as did a very interesting session on a team approach to servicing accounts. The program provided something for all attendees including vendors, delegates, spouses and children. (Needless to say, “The Lion King” proved to be a roaring success with the kids.) Even the weather cooperated as a summer heat wave ended shortly after the conference was called to order.

I was extremely proud to be able to host the President’s reception aboard the USS Intrepid, which is such a stirring symbol of our country’s resolve and courage. I thank all of you who attended and made my hosting chores so pleasurable. Monday night was an unforgettable experience. The dinner cruise was first-rate and when the ship passed the general vicinity of where the World Trade Towers once stood, passengers observed a minute of silence. We then circled the illuminated Statue of Liberty. And once again, a hush fell over everyone. That memory is indeed a keeper.

I extend my gratitude to the various committees whose hard work made the conference such a success. As I said during the conference, the real asset of AASCIF is the wealth of ideas and information we collectively possess. Our strength lies in sharing such ideas and supporting each other through research, communication and education. The members of AASCIF are family. Yes, it’s true that families sometimes disagree, but we always move beyond such differences for the greater good.

On another topic, I would like to extend my gratitude to Russ Oliver for his coordination of efforts which have enabled us to get our terrorism coverage issue before Congress. The nation must have a terrorism reinsurance mechanism in place as soon as possible and I think AASCIF has made a sound case to members of Congress on this very important matter.

Well, I’m running out of allotted space, but I don’t want to sign off before I thank all the contributors to this quarter’s newsletter. On page 4, Dave Sandy of North Dakota previews this fall’s meeting of the Finance and Investment Committee in San Diego. The conference will explore effective ways to maintain profitable investment portfolios. On the following page, Oklahoma’s Ann Seibel explores issues surrounding chronic pain and the search for effective treatment of this malady. What happens when a state’s workers’ compensation system bucks up against a federal system? Ohio’s John A. Annarino details efforts to work with representatives of the federal Medicare program. John’s article can be found on page 11. Crisis recovery strategies and business continuity planning are two important topics explored by Kentucky’s Scott McConnell beginning of page 13. Nina T. Brollier of Utah and Mary Beard of Kentucky give an overview of the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on the Toyota Motor v. Williams case and its significance to workers’ compensation. Return-to-work coordinators may find this instructive article on page 15. On the facing page, California’s Patrick Andersen reports that the rates of nonfatal occupational injuries and illness decreased in the latter half of the 1990s. Our regular features include a helping of “Dim Sum,” a guide to what’s going on “Around AASCIF,” and a calendar of “Upcoming Events.”

And finally, congratulations to the newly elected AASCIF officers for 2002-2003: President Patricia Johnson (MN), First Vice President Lane Summerhays (UT), Vice Presidents Russ Oliver (TX), David Stuewe (NS), Carl Swanson (MT) and Ken Ross (NY), and Secretary/Treasurer Frances Kaitala (MN).

I hope you enjoy this issue and I wish you all a warm and beautiful fall season.