This bill amends the workers' compensation laws in Iowa to clarify the rights of both employers and employees regarding the choice of physicians for treating work-related injuries. It establishes that while employers have the right to choose the care for injured employees, this right is contingent upon whether the employee has predesignated a physician. Employees can predesignate a primary care provider who has previously treated them and retained their medical records. Employers are required to inform employees of this right upon hiring and periodically during employment. If an employer fails to provide this notification, the employee can choose any physician for treatment, which will be considered authorized care.

Additionally, the bill outlines procedures for addressing dissatisfaction with the chosen care, allowing either party to communicate their concerns and seek alternate care if necessary. If an employee has chosen their own physician and it is determined that no significant improvement is expected from the injury, the employee can obtain a medical opinion regarding their permanent disability at the employer's expense. If the employer disputes this evaluation, they may seek a second opinion from a physician of their choice. The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and will apply to injuries occurring on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 85.27, 85.39