Temporary BWC Policy Changes Due to COVID-19

To help limit the spread of coronavirus, the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation has implemented some temporary policy changes. These changes will be in effect so long as Ohio remains in a state of emergency.

If you are in a state of crisis, or put at risk by traveling, your BWC provider is temporarily permitted to conduct your appointment over the phone. Types of appointments that can take place over the phone include evaluations, psychotherapy, etc. This change allows you stay safe at home and still receive care.

If your doctor’s office is closed, or unable to offer telemedicine, please know the Bureau has decided to extend any temporary total, living maintenance, and wage loss compensation through April 30, 2020. This should ensure no benefits are interrupted.

In addition, the Bureau has suspended all new independent medical evaluations. If you have a scheduled independent medical evaluation and need to cancel, you may do so without penalty.

If you have any questions about how these policies affect your claim, or how to navigate a new claim under these circumstances, please call us at 419-350-8277. Our qualified workers’ compensation attorneys would be happy to meet with you over the phone.

For more information, visit the Bureau’s Workers’ Resources on COVID-19 related policy changes.