The California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) is proposing updates to the Medical Treatment Utilization Schedule (MTUS) for mental health injuries.

The changes would adopt the latest Workplace Mental Health Guidelines published by the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM) on October 1, 2025, replacing the current 2019 edition. The DWC is also proposing to adopt ACOEM’s updated Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Acute Stress Disorder guidelines, replacing recommendations issued in 2018.

Under MTUS, treatment recommendations are presumed correct but may be challenged with supporting medical evidence. The DWC noted that updates are needed to reflect the current standard of care.

The DWC must hold a public hearing and respond to all comments received during the public comment period before publishing the final order online. The comment period closes on December 19th.

The MTUS sets the benchmark for medical treatment in California workers’ compensation, and the state’s drug formulary is based on these guidelines. Updates to the mental health guidelines directly impact how medications are evaluated and authorized Ensuring the formulary reflects current clinical evidence supports clearer drug therapy decisions, consistent authorization, and stronger compliance across the broader system of mental health care.