Relating to requirements regarding information to be provided to employees covered by workers' compensation health care networks.
Impact
The bill amends specific provisions within the Texas Insurance Code, focusing on Sections 1305.103 and 1305.451. By requiring the insurance carrier to furnish employees with necessary information about selecting a treating doctor, the legislation seeks to streamline processes that may currently delay or confuse employees in receiving their required care. Moreover, it allows issues regarding the provision of information to be resolved through an adjudication process, enhancing the framework for dispute resolution in workers' compensation cases.
Summary
House Bill 2815 addresses critical issues related to workers' compensation by reforming the information requirements necessary for employees covered by health care networks. The bill mandates that if an employee is treated by a non-network provider for an injury, they must select a network treating doctor upon notification by the employer's insurance carrier. This change aims to clarify the process and improve communication between employees and carriers regarding available health care options following workplace injuries.
Contention
While the bill primarily seeks to ensure that employees are adequately informed of their rights and options within workers' compensation health care networks, concerns could arise about the practical implementation of these required notifications. There may be contention around how quickly and effectively carriers can provide the information, and whether employees fully understand their rights under these new regulations. The potential for disputes regarding the adequacy of communication could complicate the bill's intended goal of improving workers' rights and access to care.
Relating to certain claims for benefits, compensation, or assistance by certain public safety employees and survivors of certain public safety employees.