AbouT THE ASSOCIATION
ABOUT GWCA
A member-driven association of more than 400 Georgia employers — and the state's advocate for workers' compensation self-insurance since 1975.
For employers considering self-insurance
Best Practices for Self-Insurers
"Self-insurance is a privilege that must be earned, not a right of every employer."
Qualifying for self-insurance
Financial solvency — must provide certified, audited financial reports.
Application to the Self-Insurers Guarantee Trust Fund and the State Board of Workers' Compensation.
Pay an initial assessment of $4,000 and annual assessments.
Provide security deposits to secure future claims in the case of insolvency.
Security may be claimed by the Self-Insurers Guarantee Trust Fund in cases of insolvency.
A commitment to long-term self-insurance.
Is self-insurance right for you?
Self-insurance tends to make sense for larger, financially stable employers with a strong safety program. GWCA generally recommends the following thresholds:
150+
Employees
$250K +
Workers' comp premium
$1.5M
Annual payroll
Solvent
+ a viable safety program
Potential benefits include improved claims control, reduced costs, better employee relations, and enhanced safety support.
Requirement for self-insurance
Must have operations in Georgia.
Must be financially solvent, supported by audited financial reports.
Establish an appropriate claims organization — i.e., a TPA or self-administration.
A commitment to timely payment of benefits.
Compliance with Georgia workers' compensation law.
Application to the Guarantee Trust Fund and the State Board, with required security.
Claims administration
Decide whether claims will be administered internally or externally.
If handled internally, ensure staff is qualified and equipped for the job.
Third-party administrators (TPAs) are available to provide claims-handling services for a fee.
Most companies should enter the self-insurance experience with the help of a reputable TPA.
Establish and fund bank accounts to assure that checks will be honored.
File reports with the State Board of Workers' Compensation in a timely manner.
Benefit payments must be made in accordance with Georgia law and drawn on a Georgia depository.
Medical treatment
Self-insured employers choose one of three physician arrangements approved under Georgia law:
Panel of Physicians
At least four doctors, including one orthopedic surgeon, a minority physician, and two other properly qualified physicians.
Conformed Panel
A broader panel of at least ten physicians, offering employees more choice of treating doctors.
MCO
A Managed Care Organization approved by the State Board of Workers' Compensation, offering a much larger choice of treating physicians.
GWCA members can access publications, conferences, and peer expertise to help set up and manage each of these steps. Learn about membership →