all aspects of Workers Compensation in the state of Kentucky

The research paper should address the following topical areas:

1.) The statutory standard for an injury AND illness to be compensable (students should discuss injury and illness even if the state treats both the same);

2.) Explanation of the benefits offered to workers’ sustaining a compensable injury/illness;

a. Amount and method of calculating temporary total disability (“TTD”) benefits (or however the state refers to temporary total disability);

b. Duration of TTD Benefits;

c. Vocational rehabilitation benefits;

d. Permanent partial disability benefits;

e. Permanent total disability benefits; and

f. Death benefits to surviving spouses/estates.

3.) Explanation of the workers’ compensation claims process from the initiation of a claim through the appeals process;

4.) Whether the state is a monopolistic, competitive market, or mix;

5.) Whether the state calculates and administers its own experience rating system, relies on the NCCI, or has some hybrid;

6.) Any methods/practices/programs that employers can participate in to reduce premiums;

7.) How light/modified duty is managed by employers and whether employers may reduce compensation for workers on light/modified duty;