Following draft regulations released for stakeholder feedback in 2025, the California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) has formally proposed revisions to its Medical Provider Network (MPN) rules.

If adopted, the changes would place additional compliance and administrative requirements on MPNs. Highlighted changes include:

• Strengthening requirements for documenting provider participation in MPNs and maintaining provider directories
• Establishing new administrative penalties for certain MPN violations, including specified failures involving treatment authorization and provider notices
• Expanding DWC oversight of MPNs, including circumstances that could result in probation, suspension, or revocation

The DWC will hold a public hearing on December 11, 2026, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM PST, with written comments due the same day at dwcrules@dir.ca.gov. The proposed regulations could be adopted in 2027.