Workers' Compensation Commission outlines claims process and timelines to Senate committee

David Greenbaum, chief executive officer of the Arkansas Workers' Compensation Commission, briefed the committee on the commission's mission to administer and enforce Arkansas workers' compensation laws and to pay timely benefits to legitimately injured workers.

Greenbaum described that under current law claimants have a one‑time right to petition the commission for a change of physician if they are not satisfied with the employer‑provided referral; that petition is processed by the commission's medical cost containment division and typically can be scheduled for a one‑time evaluation within about 30 days. If treating physicians disagree, the matter is placed with the commission's adjudication division; parties sometimes agree to a third provider, or the commission can order an independent medical examination when circumstances warrant.

On contested claims, Greenbaum said administrative law judges strive to set hearings within 90 days and render decisions usually within 30–45 days, though overall timetables can vary with caseload. He also explained the commission maintains an approved list of physicians and that employers or third‑party administrators provide prompt care under the law while the commission oversees processes for review and appeal.

Committee members asked about the appeals process, the adjudication division, and the credentials for physicians on the approved list; Greenbaum said the list includes a range of specialties (orthopedics, neurosurgery) and that the commission can order additional evaluations as needed.