Sedgwick CMS and UnitedHealth Group to Develop Integrated Disability, Medical, Workers' Compensation and Leave Administration Services for...( MEMPHIS Tenn. Dec. 7 /- Sedgwick ...),Health

MEMPHIS, Tenn., Dec. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Sedgwick Claims Management Services, Inc. (Sedgwick CMS) and UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) today signed a letter of agreement to develop and operate a program for the integrated servicing of employer-sponsored disability, group medical and workers' compensation plans along with FMLA and other employee leave and absence programs.

"The traditional practice of stand-alone delivery systems for workers' compensation, disability, group health and leave of absence programs exposes both employers and employees to confusing compliance requirements," said Sedgwick CMS President and Chief Executive Officer David A. North. "It also increases the difficulty of achieving optimal treatment, return-to-work and long-term wellness outcomes. Our industry has made significant advances in recent years through integrated disability and total absence management strategies. Now Sedgwick CMS and UnitedHealth Group are taking a breakthrough step toward a truly comprehensive solution."

The goals of the new service will be to improve the overall health and productivity of workers and manage benefit costs more effectively by streamlining program utilization for claimants, establishing systems for information sharing and collaboration among program support specialists, and organizing services and support around comprehensive recovery strategies for individuals.

The system will utilize a triage approach and deep level of integration to expedite the identification of needs and the timely referral of cases. Employees of participating Sedgwick CMS/UnitedHealth Group clients will have a single telephone number and Web site for access to all medical and absence program administrative support. I
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