Spring 2006

You Need to Know
By Jaelene Fayhee
Vice President of Public Affairs

Update your workers’ comp forms and notices
The Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) updated all workers’ comp forms and notices to reflect the new administration of the workers’ comp system. DWC requires employers to start using the new forms by May 1, 2006. The revised forms are available in the Employers section

DWC focuses on HB 7-related rules
DWC is working on rules related to House Bill 7. This spring, DWC is focusing on the disability management process, including treatment planning, treatment guidelines, and return-to-work guidelines. The public may follow rules under development and provide written comments by clicking here.

TDI changes TXCOMP link
The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) changed the website address for its TXCOMP system to www.tdi.state.tx.us/wc/txcomp.html. Employers and employees may use the TXCOMP system to find a doctor on the approved doctor list or look up insurance coverage and carrier contact information.

Commissioner Betts announces DWC organizational structure
In February, DWC Commissioner Albert Betts realigned the agency’s functions into four program areas. Commissioner Betts and Insurance Commissioner Mike Geeslin also consolidated the TDI and DWC fraud and legal enforcement functions. For more information, click here.

DWC creates return-to-work pilot program
DWC Commissioner Albert Betts signed a rule creating a return-to-work pilot program for employers that have between two and fifty employees. Under the program, employers can file a reimbursement application for money they spend to bring employees back to work under modified or alternate work. The pilot program will reimburse up to $2,500 per employer for qualifying expenses. The rule stipulates that the program’s annual expenses cannot exceed $100,000.

COMPNEWS - SPRING 2006
New Network Offers Improved Return-to-Work Outcomes, Potential Discount
Tailoring Jobs to Fit Employees
New Online Features Take "Work" Out of Workers' Comp
President's Message
You Need to Know
Fraud-Fighting Corner

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