Comparison of Worker's Compensation Costs [Discussion]

With characteristic modesty Mr. Johnson did not present his method for determining average manual rate index numbers until 1953, although his original studies were made in 1948. The publicity which has been given to his work indicates the need for index numbers of this type, which can be very useful for reinsurers, self-insurers and legislators. Compensation actuaries generally have shied away from the preparation of figures like these, which, from their very nature, do not lend themselves to actuarial niceties. There has been some hesitancy in setting aside the microscope in favor of the aerial camera and the field glasses, but if the industry itself does not prepare practical comparisons of Workmen's Compensation costs in the various states, others outside the industry will do it for us, with results which may be somewhat less than satisfactory.