The bill H. 3874 proposes amendments to Section 42-15-90 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which pertains to the fees of attorneys, physicians, and hospital charges approved by the Workers' Compensation Commission. The key change allows the Commission to establish medical fee schedules and related systems for maximum allowable payments for medical services provided by medical practitioners, excluding hospital inpatient and outpatient services. The Commission is required to conduct annual reviews and adjustments to these fee schedules, ensuring that any changes do not exceed the percentage change indicated by federally funded programs. Additionally, if adjustments exceed ten percent, an evidentiary hearing must be held, and decisions can be appealed to the Administrative Law Court.

Furthermore, the bill empowers the Commission to retain experts to assist in developing these fee schedules and mandates an annual review of the adopted schedules, taking into account factors such as the medical consumer price index and regional workers' compensation fee schedules. The overarching goal of these amendments is to ensure quality medical care for injured workers while controlling costs within the workers' compensation system. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
01/30/2025: 42-15-90
Latest Version: 42-15-90