In a move to enhance healthcare access for injured workers, New York State has enacted legislation permitting resident and fellow physicians in Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME)-accredited programs to provide treatment under supervision within the state's workers' compensation system.
This change, effective immediately, allows approximately 20,000 resident and fellow physicians across nearly 70 teaching hospitals in New York to participate in the care of injured workers. The initiative aims to alleviate provider shortages and improve timely access to quality medical care for those affected by workplace injuries.
Key Provisions:
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Supervised Practice: Residents and fellows can treat injured workers under the supervision of a physician authorized by the New York State Workers' Compensation Board.
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Billing Procedures: Services rendered by residents and fellows are billed by the supervising physician using the appropriate modifiers, ensuring compliance with the Official New York Workers' Compensation Medical Fee Schedule.
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Clinical Documentation: Treatment notes must clearly identify the resident or fellow providing care, the supervising physician, and include specific information regarding the work-related nature of the condition, the patient's work status, and the degree of temporary disability.
For more information and resources, visit the New York State Workers' Compensation Board's official page for residents and fellows: https://apps.wcb.ny.gov/content/main/hcpp/residents-fellows.jsp
and the Subject Number 046-1756
https://www.wcb.ny.gov/content/main/SubjectNos/sn046_1756.jsp