Colorado House Bill 1300, which would expand injured workers’ ability to choose their treating provider, has passed the House and Senate and currently sits with Governor Jared Polis.
Currently, injured workers can select a treating provider from a group of four predetermined providers. However, if signed into law, this bill would allow injured workers to choose from any level I or level II accredited physician through the division of workers' compensation.
Additionally, injured workers would also be able to request a new providers within 120 days of first designating a treating provider. At this time, injured workers can only request such a change within 90 days of the date of injury.
If signed into law, this bill could shift how medical services are accessed and authorized, potentially affecting the utilization of medical services. It could also increase administrative responsibilities for insurers and prompt updates to existing compliance and authorization procedures.
If enacted, this bill would go into effect January 1, 2028.