Info

DMEC is a not for profit organization founded in 1992 to advance the development of integrated disability management processes in all disability related employer programs. DMEC provides its membership a forum to discuss methods and procedures for program implementation through chapter meetings, seminars, written materials and professional development courses. Started as a small networking group of employers meeting over lunch, DMEC members were initially attempting to determine how to develop an integrated disability management process within their organizations. Spurred on by legislative initiatives, DMEC participants produced three model 24-Hour programs in December of 1992 that would allow employers an alternative to existing state workers' compensation while incorporating the principals of the integration of the non-industrial medical and disability component. While never formulated into law, these models are still referenced by CA State congressional members. During the later part of 1994 a DMEC team of professionals formed to develop a modified duty, return to work manual. The first printing of the "Building a Modified Duty Return-to-Work Manual" occurred in January 1996 with subsequent printing of over 6,000 through 2002. In order to develop a course of study leading to a professional designation, DMEC formed an alliance in 1994 with the Insurance Educational Association (IEA) for the development of called "Certified Professional in Disability Management" - CPDM. DMEC members participated in the curriculum development, course outline and the production of instructor manuals. At the completion of the three, eleven-week courses, students receive the designation "CPDM". Courses are now offered through IEA in both the classroom and online format. In 1995, DMEC incorporated and qualified as a non-profit, professional educational association. In 1996 the first annual national conference was held and subsequent conferences are offered each year in the summer.