§ 85A-109. Workers' compensation counselor or ombudsmen program.

A.  The Workers' Compensation Commission shall establish a workers' compensation counselor or ombudsman program to assist injured workers, employers and persons claiming death benefits in obtaining benefits under this act.  A special effort shall be made to equip counselors or ombudsmen with sufficient resources to assist injured workers through the system without the necessity of retaining legal representation.

B.  Workers' compensation counselors or ombudsmen shall provide information to injured workers; investigate complaints; communicate with employers, insurance carriers, self-insurers, and health care providers; provide informational seminars and workshops on workers' compensation for medical providers, insurance adjustors, and employee and employer groups; and develop informational materials for employees, employers and medical providers.

C.  The Commission shall mail a notice to the injured worker within ten (10) days of the filing of an Employer’s First Notice of Injury.  The notice shall advise the injured worker of the availability of the services of the Commission's counselor or ombudsman program and of the availability of mediation and other forms of alternative dispute resolution to assist the injured worker.  The Commission shall provide additional information as the Commission may determine necessary.

D.  The Commission shall develop a program that provides for annual training for own-risk employers and claims representatives handling workers’ compensation claims in Oklahoma.  The training shall include information about the alternative dispute resolution program, including counselor and ombudsman programs, mediation, and other services provided by the Commission.

Added by Laws 2013, c. 208, § 152, eff. Feb. 1, 2014.