Bill would increase medical payments under comp

Florida legislators are considering a bill that would increase by up to 50% fees paid to expert medical witnesses and physicians in workers compensation.

S.B. 1344, introduced Wednesday, states that any health care provider who gives a deposition shall be allowed a witness fee that may not exceed $300 per hour, up from $200 in current law. Under the bill an expert witness reviewing medical records for an expert opinion may not charge more than $300 per day, up from $200.

The bill also increases maximum reimbursements for a physician to 200% of the reimbursement allowed by Medicare, up from the current 110%. The maximum reimbursement for surgical procedures shall be increased to 200% of the Medicare rate, up from the current 140%.