Musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries are a top driver of health claims in construction and heavy industry — often leading to costly surgeries, missed work, and early disability. This Fortune 100 engineering and construction company knew early intervention could change the story. That’s why they launched Predict, Sword Health’s AI-powered early detection program.
$355k
Total MSK savings from early detection
3.7x
ROI using Predict
35%
Reduction in spine surgeries
$4,128
Average savings per high-risk member enrolled
MSK pain was driving up costs — and getting missed.
Physically demanding roles made this workforce prone to injuries — but with limited access to care and no time to navigate benefit portals, many employees went untreated until surgery was the only option.
- Traditional MSK programs relied on self-referral
- Most employees were unreachable via email
- Delayed care led to escalating claims and lost productivity
AI-powered risk detection, backed by human support
Using claims, biometric, and self-reported data, Predict identified high-risk individuals who hadn’t yet enrolled in care. Unlike passive digital prompts, Predict used concierge-style outreach — including personalized phone calls — to reach workers where they are.
Key components included:
- Real-time identification of at-risk members
- Outreach from trained Care Concierges
- Seamless enrollment into Sword’s clinical programs
This hybrid AI + human approach led to enrollment of 13% of high-risk members, including many who would’ve otherwise fallen through the cracks.
Fewer procedures. More savings. Immediate ROI.
By engaging high-risk members early, the company avoided unnecessary medical procedures and reduced total MSK costs. Predict delivered:
- 35% reduction in spine surgeries
- 41.6% reduction in ancillary services
- 10% reduction in MSK-related MRIs
- $4,128 in savings per enrolled member
Reaching the people traditional care often misses
Predict didn’t just deliver financial results — it helped address care disparities in the workforce. Compared to standard MSK program engagement, Predict enrolled:
- 262% more members using prescription pain meds
- 260% more members aged 65+
- 66.7% more African American members
For companies focused on equitable outcomes, Predict ensures no one is left behind.
Proactive MSK care doesn’t just cut costs — it changes outcomes for the people most at risk. With AI-powered detection and direct outreach, this employer engaged a workforce that traditional programs overlook. The result? A scalable model for smarter, more equitable care.
Download the full case study to see how Predict delivers measurable ROI, improves equity, and reduces MSK-related costs before they spiral.