I'm conducting an informal market analysis relating to the interest among HR and Benefit professionals for and about information on Integrated Disability and Absence Management issues. As a fairly new subscriber to BenefitsLink, I had posted a similar message at the "Voluntary Benefits" message board. Specifically, I'd like to know if there are any formal or ad hoc discussion groups on the web or within your ranks dedicated to this subject. Likewise, might there be interest in forming such a group? My background is in the Occupational Health field and, although the protocals are similar, the current topic of WC/STD/LTD claims integration has not been fully explored. Thank you for your assistance.

------------------
Robert J. Ayers
Regional Director
Integrated Disability and Absence Management
GatesMcDonald
800-423-1846, ext. 3581