The California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) proposed updates to the Medical Treatment Utilization Schedule (MTUS).

The updates would incorporate evidence-based revisions to the Chronic Pain Guidelines (Section 9792.24.2) and the adoption of the Cannabis Guideline (Section 9792.24.8). These updates reference the latest American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM) Guidelines and would be included in the Special Topics section of the MTUS.

The proposed updates to the Chronic Pain Guidelines would refine the approach to managing chronic pain, including psychological and behavioral aspects. The guideline also addresses specific chronic pain conditions such as complex regional pain syndrome, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain.

Under the proposed Cannabis Guidelines, cannabis would not be recommended for pain management. ACOEM does not endorse cannabis for chronic pain, acute pain, or postoperative pain, citing a lack of meaningful evidence supporting its effectiveness.

A public hearing will be held on March 14, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM PST, allowing stakeholders to submit oral or written comments. Zoom access and submission details are available in the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.