On May 1st, the Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation held a virtual public hearing to discuss proposed amendments to Rule 16, which governs Utilization Standards. Healthesystems attended the hearing, where changes to physician oversight requirements were as a primary topic of discussion.

Under current rule, a physician must evaluate an injured worker at least once within the first three visits. The proposal would eliminate that requirement, instead allowing physician evaluations only when a treating physician’s assistant or nurse practitioner recommends it, when deemed medically necessary by a physician, or when requested by the injured worker.

Physician stakeholders expressed concern that the change could delay appropriate care, particularly in complex cases. They cautioned that, without a defined timeframe, some injured workers may go extended periods without physician contact. These concerns were heightened by the potential combined impact of House Bill 1300, which seeks to expand provider choice.

Supporters of the revision argued that the current rule is arbitrary, and that revised approach could reduce treatment delays. Division Director Paul Tauriello noted that the proposed language still allows for physician involvement and having specific timelines in regulation may not be necessary.

The hearing also included testimony in favor of the Division's proposed electronic billing (e-billing) rules, which are expected to take effect January 1, 2026. The Division will continue to review written comments before finalizing the rules.