39-71-1102. Preferred provider organizations -- establishment -- limitations. In order to promote cost containment of medical care provided for in 39-71-704, development of preferred provider organizations by insurers is encouraged. Insurers may establish arrangements with suppliers of soft and durable medical goods and medical providers in addition to or in conjunction with managed care organizations. Workers' compensation insurers may contract with other entities to use the other entities' preferred provider organizations. After the date that a worker is given written notice by the insurer of a preferred provider, the insurer is not liable for charges from nonpreferred providers. This section does not prohibit the worker from choosing the initial treating physician under 39-71-1101(1).

     History: En. Sec. 6, Ch. 628, L. 1993.