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Running a settlement claims program can be a challenging balancing act, especially in high-profile class actions, mass torts and victim compensation funds. Claims administrators can face intense pressure to provide timely payouts to injured parties, many of whom may have waited years for compensation. That pressure can escalate quickly in these settlements — involving victims of wildfires, flooding, terrorism, environmental contamination, workplace injuries, harmful consumer products, sexual abuse, etc. — once they’ve captured the public’s attention.
At the same time, administrators have a duty to carefully vet the eligibility of claimants and guard against excessive, unsupported or fraudulent claims. This typically requires more stringent review and supporting documentation, which can delay payouts to injured parties.
How can administrators find the right balance between diligence and efficiency to achieve a fair, equitable result for all stakeholders? It starts with leveraging advanced technology, data analytics and third-party data to verify and stratify claims, thus accelerating processing times. Ample communications, stakeholder engagement and process transparency can bolster trust and operational excellence. Clear and streamlined documentation requirements can help claimants demonstrate their eligibility without undue burden. Taken together, these steps can help build integrity and efficiency into a process that’s otherwise at risk for delays, frustration and abuse.
Ryan Murphy
Partner, Global Investigations & Forensics Leader, PwC US