Hosts Matt Yehling and Patty Reinecke are joined by Jeff Pack, a Medical Management Consultant at MEC, to discuss failed back syndrome. Jeff shares his experience dealing with complex back injury claims that often start as sprains or strains but can lead to multiple surgeries and the diagnosis of failed back syndrome. The episode explores common trends in these cases, potential interventions, and advice for managing claims involving failed back syndrome.
Discussion Points:
- Sprains and Strains Leading to Excess Claims: Jeff explains how many back injury claims that reach the excess layer at MEC begin as sprains or strains but progress to surgeries, sometimes multiple, before arriving at a failed back syndrome diagnosis. He shares examples of cases involving a nurse and a mechanic to illustrate this progression.
- Common Trends and Potential Interventions: The discussion covers common back injury diagnoses seen in the excess world and potential interventions to prevent failed back syndrome. Jeff highlights the importance of addressing problems quickly, finding physicians aligned with the goal of returning employees to work, and considering tools like nurse case managers and second opinions.
- Risks and Complications of Spinal Cord Stimulators: Jeff delves into the risks and complications associated with spinal cord stimulators, which are sometimes presented as a "golden ticket" for pain relief in failed back syndrome cases. He emphasizes the need for thorough consideration and second opinions before proceeding with these devices.