The Nevada Workers' Compensation Section released a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document regarding Senate Bill 376, which went into effect October 1, 2025. This law allows first responders including police, firefighters, and arson investigators, to choose their own physician for heart and lung claims under certain conditions
The FAQ clarifies the occupations the law applies to, that the law applies to claims filed on or after October 1, 2025, and that the qualifications for a first responder to choose their physician apply when:
- Fewer than 12 qualified providers are listed in the Workers’ Compensation Section (WCS) Treating Panel
- Providers accept new patients and offer appointments within 30 days
- Treatment costs may be paid by the responder, insurer, or a casualty insurer, with reimbursement from employer
- Employers who fail to pay within 30 days may owe double the unpaid balance.
Eligible employees can select a physician or chiropractic physician from a list of all providers in the relevant specialization who have contracts with:
- An organization for managed care (OMC)
- A health benefit plan
- A health or casualty insurer of the employer
Further rule clarifications are included in the document, as instructions on how to view a copy of the WCS Treating Panel list.
