The bill amends Section 39-71-116 of the Montana Code Annotated to revise the definition of "treating physician" within the context of workers' compensation. The new language explicitly includes physical therapists as eligible treating physicians, thereby expanding the range of healthcare providers who can be responsible for the delivery and coordination of medical services for workers with compensable injuries or occupational diseases. This change aims to enhance the accessibility of medical care for injured workers by recognizing the role of physical therapists in their treatment.

In addition to the inclusion of physical therapists, the bill also makes a minor deletion regarding the certification of out-of-state treating physicians, clarifying that they must be licensed or certified in another state. This amendment reflects a broader understanding of the healthcare landscape and acknowledges the importance of physical therapists in the rehabilitation process for injured workers, potentially leading to improved outcomes in their recovery and return to work.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 39-71-116
SB0109_1(1): 39-71-116
SB0109_1(2): 39-71-116
SB0109_1(3): 39-71-116
SB0109_1(4): 39-71-116
SB0109_1(5): 39-71-116
SB0109_1(6): 39-71-116
SB0109_1(7): 39-71-116
SB0109_1: 39-71-116
SB0109_X(1): 39-71-116
SB0109_X(2): 39-71-116
SB0109_X(3): 39-71-116
SB0109_X(4): 39-71-116
SB0109_X(5): 39-71-116
SB0109_X: 39-71-116