It is customary as the holidays approach that many persons wish to settle their cases before the year’s end. Please be advised that the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation will be closed on Dec. 26 and 27, 2016, as well as Jan. 2 and 3, 2017. Also, during open settlements, wait times might be a little longer in the offices with higher caseloads generally. We appreciate your patience and will turn no one away who arrives during the regularly scheduled times for settlement approvals.

In other matters, we have revised the Form C-32 Standard Medical Report, with an eye toward making it shorter, more concise and easier to understand. With the new Mediation and Hearing Procedures now in place, we anticipate revising additional forms in the coming weeks as well. Stay tuned.

Finally, Chief Judge Kenneth M. Switzer and Brian Holmes, Director of Mediation and Ombudsmen Services of Tennessee, wish to convey their thanks to all who have attended and offered feedback at the various Listening Sessions held to date. They have been informative and productive. We anticipate posting a recap of recurring themes once they are completed. The remaining sessions are listed below:

Chattanooga: Dec. 7, 9:00 a.m., 1301 Riverfront Parkway, Suite 202, Large Conference Room

Cookeville: Dec. 9, 9:00 a.m., 444-A Neal Street, Main Courtroom

Kingsport: Dec. 13, 10:00 a.m., Historic Courthouse, Commission Room Second Floor, 3411 Highway 126, Blountville

Knoxville: Dec. 14, 10:00 a.m., 520 Summit Hill, Room 106, First Floor.

Be safe and grateful for your blessings this holiday season.