Florida COVID-19 comp report shows fewer claims again

There were 568 COVID-19 workers compensation indemnity claims in Florida in October, down from 1,150 in September and 2,891 in August, according to a report released Tuesday by the state’s Department of Financial Services, Division of Workers’ Compensation.

 

The new numbers — revised from an October report — show a steady decline in COVID-19 claims, down from the all-time high of 7,859 in July. 

 

As of Oct. 31, 7,354 COVID-19 comp claims remain open and 16,098 have been closed since January, according to the report.

 

Overall since January, insurers have paid $40.8 million in medical costs and indemnity for COVID-19 claims, 8% of the $509.6 million insurers paid for all workers claims so far this year.

 

Most — 22,188 of the 23,452, or 95% — of the COVID-19 claims have cost insurers less than $5,000. Just six claims in the state cost more than $500,000, according to the report.

 

Of claimants since January, 44.2% were for those working in protective services, including first responders, and 34.5% were for those working in health care. Overall, Insurers have denied 10,471 COVID-19 claims, according to the report.

 

More insurance and workers compensation news on the coronavirus crisis here.