NY considers bill addressing social workers in comp

New York lawmakers are considering a bill that would establish rules for licensed clinical social workers providing services to injured employees covered by workers compensation.

A.B. 6785, introduced Friday and sent to the Labor Committee, states that no claim for licensed clinical social work services would be valid and enforceable unless the provider furnishes a preliminary notice of injury and treatment to the employer and the state Workers’ Compensation Board within 48 hours following the first treatment.

Under the bill, the social worker would need to provide “a more complete report” and subsequent progress reports within 15 days, as requested in writing by the board, the board chair, and the employer or insurer at intervals of not less than three weeks apart or at less-frequent intervals if requested on forms prescribed by the chair of the board.