New Workers’ Comp Reimbursement Rules Take Effect in Michigan

Changes in how doctors are paid for treating some injured employees covered by workers’ compensation are expected to address the long-term use of pain relievers and help cut medical costs for Michigan job providers, according to state officials.

The new rules prevent reimbursements for opioid treatment beyond 90 days for non-cancer-related chronic pain unless physicians meet detailed reporting requirements, the Michigan Workers’ Compensation Agency said.

Pain relievers covered under the new Workers’ Compensation Health Care Services rules and fee schedule include morphine, codeine and methadone.

“These amendments aim to limit potential addiction problems for injured Michigan workers, will help to keep them healthy and put them back to work,” Workers’ Compensation Agency Director Kevin Elsenheimer said in a news release.

The agency has been focused on administering a fee schedule, which controls medical costs for work-related injuries.

The Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Manufacturers Association, Michigan State Medical Society and Michigan Pharmacists Association are among the groups that supported the changes, according to Jason Moon, spokesman for the state Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

Raymond Holman, legislative liaison for UAW Local 6000, which represents state employees, said the changes are “probably a mixed bag” but he’s concerned that some new rules “could be used against people.” In general, he said, the administration of Gov. Rick Snyder has “watered down” such laws and given workers fewer protections.