What is a request for authorization (RFA)?
A. This is how a doctor requests treatment, diagnostic tests or other medical services for an injured worker. A request for authorization may initially be made verbally, but it must be confirmed in writing within 72 hours on the doctor’s first report of occupational injury or illness, the primary treating physician progress report, or in a narrative report that contains the same information required in the primary treating physician progress report form. If a narrative report is used, the document must be clearly marked at the top as a request for authorization, (CCR, Title 8 9792.6(o)). The DWC is proposing a “Request for authorization” form, which when finally adopted after rulemaking, will require the requesting physician to use the form for each treatment request. Check the DWC Web site under ‘Participate in rulemaking’ or ‘DWC forum’ for updated information on this proposal and for the opportunity to submit comments.
