In response to a request from stakeholders, the department has agreed to modify WAC 296-15-360. The rule currently requires that a certified claims administrator who chooses to recertify via continuing education earn 75 continuing education credits, with a minimum number of credits in three different categories. Those categories are named, but not currently defined in rule. The modified rule will rename one category from “elective” to “general claims education,” provide a definition for each category, and clarify how course credits are assigned. In addition, the department plans to modify WAC 296-15-350 to change the term “department-approved claims administrator” to “certified claims administrator,” consistent with the terminology used in WAC 296-15-360.679.

Substitute Senate Bill (SSB) 5801 (Chapter 6, Laws of 2011), as it amends RCW 51.36.010, directs L&I to establish a statewide health care provider network to treat injured and ill workers and to expand the Centers for Occupational Health and Education (COHEs) in the workers’ compensation system. Rules are necessary to implement these changes. Self-insurers are included within the network provisions in SSB 5801. An amendment to WAC 296-15-330 has been adopted to ensure that L&I rules for self-insurers related to medical care are consistent with and include reference to the statewide health care provider network established in SSB 5801. This rulemaking includes requirements that self-insurers make certain their workers receive the information necessary to access care within the health care provider network. The changes were adopted 4/9/2013 and became effective on 5/10/2013.669.

Currently, Chapter 296-15 WAC contains several errors, including referencing other sections which were repealed in other rulemaking and incorrect form numbers. Also, legislative changes now conflict with some current rules. Modifications will be made to ensure compliance with statute. We will also modify rules per current agency standards, replacing all references to “physician” with “provider”.531.