The bill aims to modify the employer's liability under the Workers' Compensation Law in Arkansas, specifically addressing the system of managed health care established by the Workers' Compensation Commission. Key amendments include the removal of the requirement for the commission to establish rules by a specific date and the introduction of a mandate for the commission to maintain a managed health care system. Additionally, the bill clarifies the rights of injured workers regarding their choice of treating physicians, allowing them to be treated by their regular physician if they have an established doctor-patient relationship, and outlines the process for changing physicians and obtaining specialist referrals.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new provisions regarding independent medical exams, requiring employers to petition the commission for approval and provide details about the examiner and associated fees. It ensures that all correspondence and reports from the exam are shared with the claimant, who also has the right to depose the examiner. This section emphasizes the claimant's rights and responsibilities in the process, including payment for witness fees and court reporter expenses. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the management of medical care within the workers' compensation framework while ensuring the rights of injured workers are protected.

Statutes affected:
SB 284: 11-9-508(c), 11-9-508