LAC 40:I.301. Purpose

A. The purpose of this Rule is to provide a legal framework for electronic billing, processing, and payment of medical services and products provided to an injured employee and data reporting subject to R.S. 23:1203.2. It is the goal of the OWCA that electronic billing in Louisiana will follow formats that adhere to national standards and industry practices so as to minimize any customization specific to Louisiana. However, electronic billing in the workers compensation environment requires additional consideration for the required medical records (electronic attachments). At the time of promulgation, electronic attachments are not commonly used outside of the workers compensation environment. While the purpose of R.S. 23:1203.2 and these accompanying rules are to implement electronic billing in Louisiana, it is recognized that not all healthcare providers will immediately have the systems and processes to accommodate electronic billing and electronic attachments; therefore, participation in electronic medical billing as established in these rules is consistent with R.S. 23:1203.2 and is voluntary for healthcare providers.