March 2, 2023

Attached, please find a Proposed Rule Making issued March 1st by the Workers Compensation Board in the State Register regarding telehealth.

In particular, it authorizes physicians, podiatrists, psychologists, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and licensed clinical social workers to provide treatment and care under the Workers’ Compensation Law (as Authorized Medical Providers) using two-way audio and visual electronic communication, or audio only telehealth services.  The rule specifies the covered services and codes to be used.  It states Authorized Medical Providers must be available for an in-person clinical encounter with the claimant should such in-person encounter be medically necessary. This means the Authorized Medical Provider must be able to meet the claimant at the Authorized Medical Provider’s office within a reasonable travel time and distance from the claimant’s residence.

Upon review, please let us know if you have any questions.