On October 23rd, Healthesystems joined the Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation’s (DWC) second listening session on House Bill 1300, effective January 1, 2028. The session addressed the list of Level I and II Medical Doctors and Doctors of Osteopathy providers available for injured workers to select as treating physicians.

The DWC requested input on making the list organized, accessible, and user-friendly. Stakeholders attending the meeting recommended:

• Adding filters and guidance to clarify Level I (foundational) vs. Level II (advanced) expertise
• Showing provider proximity to the home or employer
• Differentiating between physicians willing to manage claims vs. those offering specialty care
• Indicating whether providers accept new patients and treat chronic pain or acute trauma

Concerns were raised about omitting midlevel providers and clinics. Stakeholders noted this could disadvantage small clinics and mislead injured workers, who may not realize their care could be delegated to a midlevel practitioner by the selected doctor.

Currently employers direct injured worker care, often to medical providers specializing in occupational health. However, HB 1300 shifts provider choice to workers. Removing mid-levels, chiropractors, and provider-affiliated clinics from the DWC’s accredited provider list, could potentially impact access to care These sessions provide insight to shape strategies that preserve network strength amid upcoming changes.

The final listening session is set for November 5th, covering premium credit impacts, physician designation timelines, and cost-reduction strategies.