What is the role of an insurance carrier in Hawaii’s Workers' Compensation system?

The role of an insurance carrier in Hawaii's Workers' Compensation system is primarily to provide coverage for injuries and illnesses that occur as a result of work-related activities. This involves not only issuing the insurance policies that employers are required to carry but also administering claims made by employees who sustain work-related injuries.

When an employee is injured on the job, the insurance carrier evaluates the claim to determine its validity and manages the payouts for medical treatments, lost wages, and potentially other benefits. This function is essential for ensuring that injured workers receive the necessary support and compensation without imposing an undue financial burden on employers who are required by law to carry this insurance.

In contrast, the other options focus on areas outside the scope of workers' compensation insurance. Providing health and life insurance pertains to different types of insurance coverage not specifically related to workplace injuries. Managing retirement benefits or handling employee grievances also does not fall under the role of a workers' compensation insurance carrier, as these responsibilities would typically be managed through different programs or agencies.