WAC 296-15-4316. What must the self-insurer do when the worker declines further vocational rehabilitation services and elects option 2 benefits?

When the department approves a rehabilitation plan, the department will notify the worker in writing of their right to decline further vocational rehabilitation services and elect option 2 benefits. The worker must make an election within the time frame required in WAC 296-19A-600 . When the worker elects option 2 benefits, the self-insurer must take the following action within five working days of receiving the worker's request: (1) Submit a Self-Insurance Vocational Reporting Form to the department. The Self-Insurance Vocational Reporting Form must include: (a) The total vocational services costs paid since the date the worker was found eligible for services; and (b) The option 2 election form signed by the worker. (2) Upon issuance of a department order confirming the option 2 election, terminate time-loss benefits effective the date of the department order with proper notification to the worker as required in WAC 296-15-425 , and commence payment of option 2 benefits to the worker according to the established payment schedule. The first payment must be made no later than fifteen days after the date time-loss is terminated. Option 2 benefits may be paid before the department issues an order.