To join on your computer or mobile app:
https://lni-wa-gov.zoom.us/j/85477472867?pwd=YUtqMzBTSHUyNDdmVEJuaXhLL3R4Zz09
Meeting ID: 854 7747 2867
Password: 52423Mtg#

To join by phone (audio only):
1-253-215-8782 US (Tacoma)

Find your local number here: https://lni-wa-gov.zoom.us/u/kemOYtoXOf

The hearing will begin at 10:00 a.m. and will continue until all oral comments are received.

L&I encourages the submittal of written comments, due by 5:00 p.m. on May 24, 2023.

Public hearings held virtually have proven effective in allowing greater public access, eliminating the burden of physical travel, and maintaining public safety. Accordingly, this public hearing will not be held in person.

The purpose of this rulemaking is to address how to accommodate the worker by providing alternative pathways to having an in-person independent medical exam (IME) performed when a worker cannot access a provider in a reasonably convenient location; and to ensure mutual understanding of when telemedicine may be appropriate for IME. This rulemaking aligns with changes to RCW 51.36.070 under 2020’s Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 6440 (ESSB 6440) which states that that an IME “must be at a place reasonably convenient to the injured worker, or alternatively utilize telemedicine if the department determines telemedicine is appropriate for the examination.” ESSB 6440 also required L&I adopt rules, policies, and processes governing the use and appropriateness of telemedicine for IME. The rules ensure consistency when L&I or a self-insured employer schedules an in-person or telemedicine IME.