Robyn Walsh, the head of Aetna Workers Comp Advantage program, is retiring. No replacement has been named. Started over a year ago by Aetna as a means to enter the workers comp network business, AWCA has struggled to gain traction. While AWCA has attracted interest from several payers, the only payer customer signed to date is the Hartford, and only in Pennsylvania. However, the Hartford appears interested in expanding their relationship into other jurisdictions.

Walsh came into the position with little background in workers comp; she had previously worked in investor relations, networks, and pharmacy.

As I have noted previously, the logic behind group health payers entering the workers comp market leaves me scratching my head. There just is not that much revenue in workers comp.

What does this mean for you?

It is unclear if Walsh's retirement is due to lack of success, a desire to change leadership, or if this was part of the plan all along. We'll have to wait and see. In the meantime, before committing to do business with Aetna, watch carefully to see if Aetna does gain any traction in WC.