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In this episode of It’s Settled, hosts Shawn Deane and Allison Kelly sit down with Abbie Hudgens, former Administrator of the Tennessee Workers’ Compensation Division, to explore her remarkable career and the sweeping reforms she led. Abbie shares how an unexpected path, from urban ministry to public policy, ultimately positioned her to transform Tennessee’s workers’ compensation system. Through her leadership, the state introduced major structural changes, including dedicated workers’ compensation courts, mediation requirements, ombudsman support, and new medical management tools. She reflects on how these reforms improved system consistency and accessibility while balancing the needs of both employers and injured workers.

The conversation also dives into the human side of workers’ compensation, particularly the often-overlooked challenges injured individuals face after a claim is settled. Abbie emphasizes the importance of education, transparency, and ongoing support, noting that many workers feel overwhelmed once they must manage their own care and funds. She highlights the critical role of professional administration and resources that help individuals navigate complex requirements like Medicare compliance. Throughout the episode, Abbie underscores her core philosophy: a successful workers’ comp system should not only function efficiently but also provide compassionate, long-term support that leads to better outcomes for everyone involved.

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