Tumwater, WA – Injured workers in Washington state can now choose from more than 20,000 health care providers in the Department of Labor & Industries’ (L&I) medical network. The network went live in 2013 to serve workers who need ongoing medical treatment for job-related injuries or illness.
“We have more than doubled the size of our network since it began,” said Vickie Kennedy, L&I’s assistant director for Insurance Services. “Ready access to high-quality care helps our injured workers quickly return to good health and their jobs.”
L&I data show that 99 percent of injured workers statewide live within 15 miles of at least five primary-care providers who are in the network. Patients also have access to a broad range of specialists through the provider network.
Injured workers in Washington can see any doctor for their first visit when a claim is filed, but only network providers can deliver ongoing treatment. Workers can search for providers at www.FindADoc.Lni.wa.gov; the directory is updated daily.
The medical provider network is part of the historic 2011 workers’ compensation reforms designed to improve outcomes for injured workers, reduce disability and cut costs for the state’s workers’ compensation program. The standards for providers to be admitted to the L&I network are similar to those of other health networks in Washington state and around the country. Requirements include proof of medical liability insurance and professional licenses that are free of restrictions.
Source: WA L&I