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Chronic pain, disability mind-set, and the upcoming ex-mod change are among the topics for breakout sessions at the National Worker's Compensation and Disability ConferenceŽ and Expo.

The inappropriate use of opioids in the workers' comp system is not unique to the private sector. Federal agencies face many of the same challenges, and like some states, their solutions offer valuable insights.

Some people new to the workers' comp system are certainly no strangers to risk. Because of economic changes in recent years, many high-level executives are taking on workers' comp responsibilities for their organizations. Included are CFOs, general counsels, risk professionals, treasurers, and other professionals with purchasing authority.

While the idea that opioid use is an independent risk factor for the development of catastrophic claims may not be surprising, the scientific confirmation that opioids are driving up workers' comp claims costs has led at least one insurer to consider alternative ways of treating injured workers who have chronic pain.

A simple burglary can be the demise of a company, especially one that handles medical information. Just ask Chris Brigham.

The Food and Drug Administration-approved indication for nearly all opioids is for moderate to severe pain. A label change by the FDA would end the implication that the drugs are safe and effective for long-term use, according to a physicians' organization targeting opioid overprescribing.

Ever wonder what some of the most opinionated voices in the workers' comp space would say to each other -- about the future of the system, the political scene, or changes in the system?

Florida officials last month charged eight people with workers' comp fraud and money laundering, and their investigation continues.

Proponents of a plan to allow Oklahoma employers to opt out of the workers' comp system are gearing up for the next legislative session that starts in January. Supporters are speaking to a variety of groups this summer with the main goal of education.

Many well-known voices in the workers' comp space will share their expertise. But a group of new speakers adds to the already high-quality list at the National Workers' Compensation and Disability ConferenceŽ & Expo.

At its summer meeting, the National Conference of Insurance Legislators reviewed proposed legislation in a couple of states and heard testimony from industry insiders on the practice of physicians selling medications out of their offices.

Long-term opioid users in the Texas workers' comp system are getting a wake-up call. The state next year is shutting off their supply unless they have pre-authorization.

The Supreme Court's decision to uphold most aspects of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 led to a flurry of online discussions and opinions.

Pain management, medical networks, and unnecessary treatments are among the issues targeted in the Health/Medical Management track.

Returning injured workers to the workforce can be tricky in the current economic environment. Some employers question whether it is feasible to pay a less-productive injured worker and may instead consider replacing that employee with a less expensive new hire.