MPI still lacking brain injury expert

Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) has yet to hire an independent brain injury expert to investigate the handling of personal injury claims, despite a recommendation two years ago. This failure was brought to light during a Public Utilities Board hearing examining MPI's general rate application for a 2.38% increase. Several witnesses shared their experiences with MPI and their struggles with brain injury claims.

Jean-Marc Christophe, a witness, suffered a concussion following a collision in September 2025. He expressed frustration with MPI's handling of his claim, stating that he has been unable to receive adequate support. Christophe's psychologist diagnosed him and suggested psychological treatment, but he felt that the clinician assigned to him provided little help. Loud noises in his building worsened his condition, but the clinician advised him to tolerate the noise and "get over it," which Christophe found ineffective.

MPI's regulator directed the company to appoint an external expert on brain injuries after several witnesses criticized the Crown insurer's handling of personal injury claims. MPI formed a working group and sought help from the Ontario Brain Injury Association, as recommended, but received no submissions. The regulator asked MPI about the progress of its review, but the company only mentioned that it had secured a firm and an update was expected in November.

Critics argue that MPI's review does not go far enough, as it focuses on the claims process and administration rather than the broader impact of brain injuries. Monique Curci, an MPI claimant and advocacy leader, emphasized that the review must examine the claims process and how it affects individuals with brain injuries. Curci highlighted the challenges faced by those with brain injuries, including difficulties in memory, attention, communication, and emotional regulation, which can make navigating the claims process particularly difficult.

Another witness, John McKernan, shared the tragic story of his friend Barry Waito, who died in March at the age of 69 after being involved in a brain injury accident. McKernan detailed Waito's experience with MPI, including conflicting medical reviews, lack of transparency regarding the credentials of reviewers, and repeated denials of additional payments. Waito had initially been misdiagnosed with whiplash by anonymous reviewers, who relied on a sports guideline to evaluate his injury.