The bill amends the Worker's Disability Compensation Act of 1969, specifically section 315, to clarify the responsibilities of employers regarding the provision of medical care and related services to employees who sustain personal injuries while on the job. Key changes include the requirement for employers to furnish a range of medical services, including timely medical, surgical, and hospital services, dental services, and various assistive devices. The bill also specifies that employers are not required to reimburse for certain services, such as optometric and chiropractic services, unless they meet specific criteria based on definitions in the public health code. Additionally, it establishes that attendant or nursing care provided by family members is limited to 84 hours per week.

Further provisions in the bill enhance the rights of employees to choose their healthcare providers and outline the obligations of employers and their carriers to provide timely notice and authorization for treatment. If an employer fails to provide an open claim letter within a specified timeframe, they may incur penalties. The bill also introduces a mechanism for employees to request preauthorization for treatment and establishes guidelines for the review of medical charges and services to ensure compliance with established standards. Overall, the amendments aim to improve the clarity and efficiency of the worker's compensation process while ensuring that injured employees receive appropriate care.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 418.315