If a complication arises with a simple cut, scrape, laceration or puncture wound, it can be a medical emergency. The risk of wound infections is high. Early signs of infection can be redness and swelling around the wound. This can then greatly worsen; there can be drainage from the wound and redlines spreading away from the wound. A minor infection can be treated with oral antibiotics and wound care, whereas a more severe infection may require IV antibiotics, hospitalization and surgery. With increased care comes time lost from work. A simple cut can become a lost-time claim quickly. The cost of medical care is skyrocketing. With personal health insurance, someone may be looking at co-pays, but with workers’ compensation, we are looking at full prices for care. NHADA-WCT has negotiated discounts with some providers, and per the Department of Labor, we pay what is reasonable. Discounts and reasonable charges can still leave us with large medical spend balances. When looking at the cost of medical care for lacerations, it is not uncommon to see a wide range of charges • Urgent Care ⊲ The average cost of an urgent care visit for a simple laceration with or without sutures is approximately $300.00-$800.00 or more. Costs include but are not limited to suturing supplies, wound care supplies, tetanus shots, prescription medication, X-rays and provider fees. Some facilities will also charge a “facility” fee. The radiologist may also charge a separate fee for reading the X-rays. 21
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