Coverage of Conditions and Treatments (Coverage Decisions)

Use this lookup tool to determine coverage decisions, or if prior authorization is needed for the treatment or condition. Note: For Self-insured employer claims, you must contact the employer or their claims administrator.

List also available in PDF format.

See Treatment Guidelines and Resources for additional information.

L&I does not cover intradiscal heating techniques. We have found no substantial scientific evidence documenting the long-term safety and efficacy of intradiscal heating, particularly in the injured worker population.

IDET or intradiscal heating, consists of inserting a needle or catheter into an intervertebral disc space to deliver controlled heat for treatment of discogenic pain. There are 2 methods currently employed to deliver heat to a herniated disc:

  1. Radiofrequency generated heat and,
  2. Heat generated by a resistive coil at the tip of a catheter.

IDET technology assessment update (127 KB PDF)
IDET technology assessment (181 KB PDF)