The bill amends Arkansas Code 11-9-514(a) regarding the process for changing physicians under the Workers' Compensation Law. It establishes that if an employee selects a physician, a change can only be authorized by the Workers' Compensation Commission if the employee provides a compelling reason. However, if the employer selects the physician, the employee may petition for a one-time change, with the commission determining the new physician without being bound by the parties' recommendations. The bill also allows for referrals to relevant specialists and permits one change of physician per year to either another physician associated with a certified managed care entity or an appropriate specialist.

Additionally, the bill recognizes the need for injured employees to receive treatment from multiple specialists, allowing for one change of specialist per year for each relevant specialty. It removes previous provisions that would have nullified certain sections of the law following the establishment of a managed care system, thereby streamlining the process for changing physicians and ensuring continuity of care. The bill also simplifies the notification process for changes to chiropractic physicians, optometrists, or podiatrists, allowing employees to make these changes with advance written notice to their employer or carrier.

Statutes affected:
SB 288: 11-9-514(a)