Does a medical provider have an option if he or she believes an injured worker needs treatment that is not consistent with the Guidelines?
It is recognized there are legitimate reasons for not adhering to the Medical Treatment Guidelines: Extend duration of treatment when a patient is continuing to show objective functional improvement. Individual circumstances, such as other medical conditions, may delay an individual’s response to treatment, or make certain treatment appropriate. Actual treatment is not addressed by the Guidelines. Peer reviewed studies may provide evidence supporting new/alternative treatments. In those cases, the Treating Medical Provider may submit a variance request on form MG-2.
Related Questions
- When reporting treatment that is consistent with the Guidelines, is a fully completed C-4 report sufficient, or must a provider also include a narrative report?
- Can an injured worker voluntarily pay a medical provider for medical treatment that is not recommended in the Medical Treatment Guidelines?
- Can medical providers provide treatment that is not consistent with the Medical Treatment Guidelines if they do so for free?
