4123-6-02.2 Provider Credential Criteria

The Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation sought a rule change that had the potential to decertify a vocational rehabilitation provider for ‘lateness’ in providing documentation. The rule in part stated ‘not have a pattern or practice (three or more documented instances) of failing to comply with vocational rehabilitation case management procedures’. The rule required the submission of an initial rehabilitation plan within 45 days from case manager assignment. There were just cause scenarios for failure to comply with this requirement. Progress notes were required every 30 days from plan submission. There was no ‘just cause’ included in the language for progress notes.

IARP opposed this rule and retained the services of Philip Fulton, Esq., who spoke against this provision at a JCAAR hearing on 9/14/06. Many members provided letters against this rule change. IARP received notification that the ‘vocational rehabilitation’ language had been removed from the credentialing rule.

IARP will continue to monitor potential rule changes as it affects the provision of vocational rehabilitation services.

Additionally, the IARP Board has voted to develop a position paper to address the problem of provider non-compliance with policy and procedures for vocational rehabilitation services.