WILMINGTON, Del. – The Delaware Department of Labor reports that the number of medical providers participating in the state’s workers compensation system has increased since SB164 became law in June. According to reports, the legislation adjusted the evaluation and management reimbursement rate after it had fallen below the federal benchmark used by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
State officials say the change addressed a long running concern that low reimbursement rates were discouraging providers from accepting workers compensation cases.
According to state data, more than 200 additional providers have joined the system since the law took effect, and the total is expected to continue growing as the updated rates take hold across the network. SB164 was sponsored by State Senator Jack Walsh and State Representative Ed Osienski and was signed into law by Governor Matt Meyer. The measure followed cooperation between the Department of Labor and the Workers Compensation Oversight Panel as they worked to improve access to care for injured workers.
State officials say the increase in participating providers is an early sign that the reform is strengthening the system designed to support both employees who are injured on the job and the medical professionals who treat them. The Workers Compensation Oversight Panel reports that the updated rate structure is intended to create a more stable and accessible network of providers willing to take these cases. Information about the workers compensation program and instructions for providers seeking certification can be found at industrialaffairs.delaware.gov.
