Proposed Rule for Locum Tenens

In September 2005, the WSCA filed a rule-making petition to address the need for insurers to allow chiropractors to have "locum tenen's" providers, or temporary provider substitutes. The rule-making process has reached its final stages and had a hearing this past Wednesday, January 10, 2007.

At the hearing this past Wednesday there were some proposed changes to the initial draft rule that was provided. Formal public comment on those rules was set to close on Monday, January 15, 2007. However, after meeting with the OIC staff, we were able to get the deadline extended to Friday, January 19th at 5pm. Public comment may be in writing, sent regular mail OR it may be emailed.

Your comments should address:

1. Provider substitutions should not have to be already contracted with carriers.
2. All provider categories should be allowed temporary provider substitutions.
3. Temporary provider rules should have an "extenuating circumstances" provision when a person has an illness, injury or other matter that exceeds 60 days in a calendar year.
4. Support the recommendations of the WSCA.
5. Any other comment related to temporary provider coverage that you think is appropriate (not panel limitations - that is a different issue and is being addressed in proposed legislation).

Your public comment should be mailed to:
    Melodie Bankers
    Office of the Insurance Commissioner
    PO Box 40258
    Olympia, WA 98504-0258
    melodieb@oic.wa.gov

    RE: OIC PROPOSED RULE WSR 05-22-113

To review the initial proposed rule, the amended proposed rule, and the WSCA (petitioner's) response and follow up response to the rule.