The Dispute Resolution and Decision Review Body (DRDRB) strives to ensure decisions are fair, transparent and clearly understood. We work collaboratively with workers and employers to address their concerns about decisions and to reach resolution.
DRDRB’s role includes guiding clients through the appeal process, resolving issues and evaluating decision accuracy.
Every decision is important to us.
The decisions we make have significant impacts on people’s lives, so we are committed to making sure we consider all the facts and understand all perspectives. When a client does not agree with a claim or account decision, we aim to resolve issues at the earliest possible opportunity.
Our clients have options to ensure the right decisions have been made on their claim. The first step is to share their questions with the decision maker to see if they can reach an understanding and a resolution together and, if necessary, speak with a supervisor. If questions remain unresolved, clients can request a formal review by the DRDRB within one year of the decision date.
If the DRDRB confirms a decision is correct but the client still disagrees, then the client may raise their concern to the external and independent Appeals Commission for Alberta Workers’ Compensation within one year of the DRDRB’s decision (if the DRDRB decision is dated on or after April 2, 2021). The Appeals Commission is the final level of appeal for workers and employers who disagree with a WCB decision.
If a decision is changed by the Appeals Commission, the DRDRB will connect with the impacted party within five days of the decision from the Appeals Commission and will promptly begin implementation.
We track key concerns and decision outcomes.
The main areas of concern raised to the DRDRB in 2024 included:
- Initial entitlement to compensation
- Accuracy of benefit payment calculations
- A worker’s ability (or inability) to perform their regular or modified duties at any point in their claim
We monitor, review and report on decision accuracy outcomes to drive improvements in decision making. We regularly share our observations with business areas for learning and coaching purposes.
* We are committed to an inclusive review process that is adaptable to our clients’ needs. At any point, a client can temporarily withdraw their request for review to gather additional information or secure representation. The length of time a client chooses to withdraw their review varies based on their individual needs and is not reflected in the DRDRB’s time to action. Once a client indicates they are ready to proceed, the DRDRB continues to action the review.