Deconstructing Comp
Now in Season 5! We are still breaking down complex issues of workers' compensation into bite-sized nuggets, one conversation at a time, with one slight twist. We are finally doing what we set out to do when we started: discuss the nuances of our fascinating system in "Cliff Notes" style summaries.
Yvonne Guibert and Rafael Gonzalez approach workers' comp conversations from different backgrounds. Still, they share many similar things, such as their love for family and friends, a passion for Latin culture, and good old-fashioned belly laughs. Join them as they chat with their industry friends and colleagues, learn more about their roles, laugh, and have fun on the journey. You might learn something along the way! See you soon! ¡Hasta pronto!
Deconstructing Comp
Scynthia Syfrett: SHARP Lessons in Risk
In this episode of Deconstructing Comp, Yvonne Guibert and Rafael Gonzalez welcome Scynthia Syfrett, Workers’ Compensation Program Manager at SHARP Healthcare in San Diego. Scynthia offers her perspective on managing a large deductible program, with a $1 million per-claim deductible, and the lessons in risk that come with operating at this scale.
Our conversation examines how large deductible programs shift a significant portion of the claims exposure back to the employer, presenting both opportunities and challenges. Scynthia explains why careful oversight, proactive claims management, trusted vendor partners, and tailored processes are essential to ensure every claim is handled with both financial accountability and employee care.
She also highlights why healthcare systems, with thousands of employees, must maintain clear strategies for managing risk, controlling litigation, and supporting injured employees within such a high-stakes framework.
You'll also learn that Scynthia is passionate about education, just like Yvonne and Rafael!
Key terms and concepts mentioned in this episode to help guide your listening:
Large Deductible Program – SHARP's program features a $1 million per-claim deductible, shifting a significant portion of the financial responsibility back to the employer.
Risk Management – In workers’ compensation, risk management means recognizing and addressing financial, legal, strategic, and safety risks that can affect both employees and the organization.
Litigation Review – The process of evaluating claims before escalating to legal action; Scynthia discusses SHARP’s unique approach.
Return to Work (RTW) – Supporting employees in safely resuming their roles, often with modified duties.
Safety – Preventive measures and tracking of safety incidents within an employer's environment.
Employee Education – SHARP’s investment in training employees to understand workers’ compensation processes and responsibilities.
Trusted Vendor Partners – External claims, legal, and medical partners who work closely with an employer to manage claims effectively.
¡Muchas Gracias! Thank you for listening. We would appreciate you sharing our podcast with your friends on social media. Find Yvonne and Rafael on Linked In or follow us on Twitter @deconstructcomp