ACC unit targeting high-cost clients

A new ACC unit has been working to cut costs by targeting long-term clients who claim more than $600 a week.

In the six months since the recover independence unit was formed, 721 people have been dropped from ACC - roughly, twice the number as would normally be expected to leave, The Press reported.

An internal document obtained by the newspaper under the Official Information Act said the unit focused on cases with potential for "quick wins through targeted intervention".

It said there was a need to balance the needs of clients with "an increased focus on scheme liability, cost containment and value for money".

ACC long-term claims project leader Phil Riley said the unit was formed to battle rising claims and costs.

The Government last month announced ACC levies for workers, employers and motorists would rise this year with the average wage earner paying an extra $150.

ACC minister Nick Smith said the organisation would be under pressure to manage costs to keep levy increases to a minimum and ensure its long-term financial viability.

- NZPA