Rehab

Californians lose $56M in workers’ comp

Rehab Regs, December 2, 2004

Workers who submitted claims under California's new workers' compensation law were deprived of $56 million in occupational therapy services during the first six months of 2004, according to a study. The study, completed by the Occupational Therapy Association of California (OTAC), surveyed 150 occupational therapy practices in the state and compared key data from January 1 through June 30 for the years 2003 and 2004. OTAC found that in 2004, patients experienced fewer treatments, more denied claims, and longer waiting times for treatment due to new medical review requirements meant to streamline the process. The American Occupational Therapy Association is currently working with California occupational therapists and policy makers to assure that utilization guidelines are appropriate, implemented fairly, and processed efficiently.

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