Date: 08/31/2009
Final
Witness Testimony
INTERIM COMMITTEE TO STUDY ISSUES RELATED TO PINNACOL ASSURANCE
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09:02 AM -- Witness Testimony
Senator Carroll explained the purpose of the committee and stated that the day's agenda would include testimony from medical professionals and injured workers. Those wishing to testify but who did not RSVP, will testify during public testimony.
Michael Byrd, an injured worker, Business Manager of IBEW Local 111 and President of the Colorado State Conference of Electrical Workers testified. (Attachment A) Mr. Byrd was involved in a serious work related car accident on 2/23/2004. He described his treatment, surgical complications and recovery process. He expressed concerns about the registered nurse hired by Pinnacol to attend his rehabilitation and physician appointments. He viewed her as a spy for Pinnacol. He was assisted by an attorney hired by the local union to manage his case. He also expressed concerns about Pinnacol's prescription drug program. Although he will take three medications for the rest of his life, Pinnacol will only fill the prescriptions once per month. He has testified that he had dropped Pinnacol as the insurer of his business. He recommended that Pinnacol treat people with respect, give more respect to doctors on their diagnoses, and undergo continued state oversight.
In response to a question from Senator Tochtrop, Mr. Byrd testified that his doctor was chosen by his attorney and Pinnacol. Representative Miklosi asked for specifics on the nurse following Mr. Byrd's case. Mr. Byrd explained that she was hired by Pinnacol to follow him around. Mr. Simon asked about physician predesignation on Mr. Byrd's policy which he said he had not done. Senator Mitchell complimented Mr. Byrd about taking his business elsewhere. Representative Gerou asked about Mr. Byrd's arm infection. Mr. Byrd stated that no one came back to check on him after surgery, and a nurse was not assigned until after he went back to Grand Junction. Representative Pace said he'd heard cases of Pinnacol "spying" and he asked Mr. Byrd how legislators can deal with this statutorily such as with a post injury survey. Mr. Byrd said he would have liked that. Senator Mitchell asked if he filed a complaint against Pinnacol with the Division of Insurance or the Division of Workers' Compensation which he did not.