Announced earlier this year, the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board announced a proposed increase in medical reimbursement for providers who treat workers’ compensation claimants, reducing paperwork in workers’ comp claims, as well as an online medical portal. These changes are proposed in hopes of encouraging more health care providers to treat injured workers and giving them the treatment they require.
Workers’ Compensation Medical Portal
For injured workers, receiving quality medical care so they can get on the road to recovery and to the point where they are able to work again is of the utmost importance. According to the Workers’ Compensation Board , “The proposals come in direct response to claimants’ challenges in finding treating providers, and concerns from health care providers around low fees and administrative complexity that keep some from participating. By addressing these concerns and bringing more providers into the workers’ compensation system, injured workers can more readily access the care they need.” To further this initiative, the Board has committed themselves to developing a medical portal that will allow medical providers to quickly and efficiently identify if their treatment is consistent with the Board’s Medical Treatment Guidelines (MTG). If the treatment is not consistent with the MTG, the health care provider can then submit a variance request . The new medical portal is an important update and a step towards easier processes and paperless systems. In addition to the medical portal, the Board is continuing their efforts to include additional health care providers to treat injured workers. As it stands currently, physicians, psychologists, chiropractors, and podiatrists can be authorized to treat injured workers. A legislative solution has been supported by Governor Cuomo which would permit most medical providers licensed by the State of New York to become authorized to treat within the workers’ compensation system. This legislation would allow medical providers such as physician’s assistants, licensed clinical social workers, among others to provide care for injured workers. With changes on the horizon and advancements being made, it is vital to have an understanding of the options available to you and your workers’ compensation case. To do so, you are advised to work with an expert attorney who is dedicated to seeing you on the road to recovery and receiving the care you truly deserve. For more information on filing a workers’ compensation claim and to speak with an attorney, contact Erwin, McCane & Daly today!
