SB288
To Modify A Physician Change Under The Workers' Compensation Law That Resulted From Initiated Measure 1948, No. 4.
Last Action (Feb. 24, 2025): Sine Die adjournment
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AI-Generated Summary
Senate Bill 288 modifies Arkansas Workers' Compensation law regarding the process by which an injured employee may change their physician. It establishes specific procedures for when an employer selects the initial physician, allowing the claimant to petition the Workers' Compensation Commission for a one-time change. The bill further provides injured employees the right to petition the commission once per year for a change of physician or specialist, provided the new medical providers are associated with a commission-certified managed care entity or agree to established fee schedules and rules. It also clarifies that injured workers may obtain one change of specialist per year for each relevant specialty. Additionally, the bill outlines specific conditions for physician changes that apply once an Arkansas managed care system is fully established, including requirements for maintaining a bona fide doctor-patient relationship and compliance with managed care entity rules. The bill ensures that any petition for a change of physician filed with the commission must be expedited.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
Injured employees who seek more flexibility in their medical care would benefit from the increased ability to petition for physician changes and the ability to switch specialists per year. Additionally, medical providers who are associated with certified managed care entities may see an increase in patient referrals as the bill incentivizes the selection of such providers.
Who Might Suffer?
Employers and insurance carriers may face higher administrative burdens and costs due to the increased frequency of potential physician changes and the expedited processing of these petitions. Furthermore, employees who had pre-existing relationships with physicians who are not willing to agree to the terms, conditions, or fee schedules of the employer's managed care entity may find it more difficult to continue treatment with their preferred doctor.
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