Which of the following is a reason for reviewing claims through hearings?

Reviewing claims through hearings serves the essential purpose of effectively resolving disputes that arise in workers' compensation cases. When discrepancies occur regarding the benefits or responsibilities associated with a claim—whether it involves issues like medical treatment authorization, compensability of the injury, or the amount of compensation owed—hearings provide a structured forum where both parties can present their arguments and evidence.

During a hearing, the evidence and testimonies are examined meticulously, allowing a neutral party such as a judge or hearing officer to make an informed decision. This process not only clarifies the facts surrounding the claim but also ensures that both sides have an opportunity to be heard, fostering a sense of fairness and justice within the workers' compensation system.

While the other choices touch on important aspects of workers' compensation, they do not directly address the primary function of claims hearings. Enhancing employer-employee relationships and expediting payment processes may be desirable outcomes but are not the primary reasons for conducting hearings. Similarly, modifying state regulations typically falls under the purview of legislative bodies and is not a direct function of the hearing process itself. Therefore, the focus of hearings centers around resolving disputes effectively, making this the correct and most relevant answer.