MEMORANDUM NO. 2012-01

Updated WCC Medical Protocols effective July 1, 2012

In consultation with practitioners, insurers and the Medical Advisory Panel the medical protocols for treatment of injuries to the lumbar spine and cervical spine have been updated. These revisions reflect the latest changes in the medical field regarding new procedures, treatments and diagnostic tests.

Additionally, we have created protocols for opioid management. The Commission recognizes that some injured workers may require opioids for the management of their acute and chronic pain. Proper opioid management is essential for the safe and efficient care of injured workers.

These protocols are not meant to be absolute. There must be room for medical judgment. Medical providers are urged to contact the insurer if they feel that a treatment pattern other than the published protocol is required. It is expected that the payer will work with the provider to ensure that the injured worker receives the most appropriate treatment.

These protocols will be used by the Commission to evaluate whether a treatment is reasonable and appropriate based on the diagnosis of injury or illness. The effective date of these revised protocols is July 1, 2012.

The Commission, along with practitioners, insurers and the Medical Advisory Panel, is currently working on updates to the medical protocols for treatment of injuries to the shoulder, knee and hand. These will be published upon completion.

We are grateful to the medical professionals who have spent and continue to spend many hours working with us to bring the most appropriate and the highest standard of care to injured workers in Connecticut.

The protocols can be found at https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/WCC/publications/professional-guides/protocols.pdf.