House Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to amend and reenact specific provisions of the Louisiana Workers' Compensation law, particularly focusing on the medical treatment schedule. The bill revises the definition of "schedule" to refer specifically to the Official Disability Guidelines (ODG) by MCG, which are evidence-based guidelines designed to improve care and reduce costs in workers' compensation and disability management. Additionally, the bill outlines a new procedure for medical care not covered by the ODG, requiring that such care relies on systematic medical literature reviews and meets specific criteria regarding the strength of medical evidence.

Furthermore, the bill repeals several existing provisions related to the medical treatment schedule, including the previous requirements for the assistant secretary to promulgate rules and the responsibilities of the medical advisory council. The new law emphasizes the adoption of the ODG and establishes a more structured approach to evaluating medical treatments not specified in the guidelines. This includes ensuring that any treatment not covered by the ODG must be supported by comprehensive evidence and adhere to updated interdisciplinary standards. Overall, the bill seeks to streamline the workers' compensation medical treatment process while ensuring that care is based on the latest medical evidence.

Statutes affected:
HB819 Original: 23:1(A)(6), 23:1(B)