January 30, 2026 | SIBTF.org — The California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) has announced a public hearing for February 27, 2026, to review proposed updates to the Medical Treatment Utilization Schedule (MTUS). The MTUS guides physicians, claims administrators, and insurers in determining medically necessary care for injured workers. The DWC emphasizes that the hearing will allow stakeholders to provide oral or written feedback on the proposed revisions, ensuring that treatment guidelines remain consistent with current medical evidence and practical claims administration realities.
Understanding the Scope of MTUS Revisions
The MTUS updates are designed to incorporate the latest clinical research, clarify treatment frequency and duration, and standardize coverage across different types of injuries. Officials say the revisions aim to balance quality patient care with efficient claims management, helping to reduce disputes over treatment appropriateness. By soliciting public input, the DWC seeks feedback that reflects both clinical practice and operational realities, ensuring the MTUS remains fair, practical, and medically sound.
How Stakeholders Can Participate
Physicians, insurers, claims administrators, and labor representatives are encouraged to attend in person or submit written comments. Reviewing draft materials ahead of the hearing allows stakeholders to provide informed feedback, highlight potential gaps, propose clarifications, and ensure the guidelines are enforceable in practice. Public engagement ensures transparency and allows the DWC to incorporate perspectives from those who interact with the MTUS daily.
Implications for Injured Workers and Employers
Revisions to the MTUS can directly affect treatment approvals, reimbursement, and claim outcomes. For injured workers, the updates may influence which therapies are covered and the frequency or duration of treatment. Employers and insurers may need to adjust claims processing, utilization review procedures, and anticipate changes in medical-legal costs. Early feedback helps clarify guidelines, reduce uncertainty, and prevent disputes before the MTUS is finalized.
Why Public Feedback Matters
Public input ensures that MTUS updates are informed by real-world experience. Medical professionals can validate that recommendations are evidence-based and feasible, while insurers and labor representatives can provide insight into administrative and operational considerations. Engaging stakeholders early allows the DWC to address ambiguities and unintended consequences, enhancing both the fairness and effectiveness of the MTUS.
Accessing MTUS Draft Materials
Draft updates, along with instructions for submitting feedback, are available on the DWC website. Written comments can be submitted online or by mail and will be included in the official record. Reviewing these materials in advance allows stakeholders to contribute meaningful feedback that can shape treatment practices and ensure guidelines reflect both clinical and operational realities.
For full details, registration information, and access to draft materials click here.
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FAQs: About MTUS Updates
What is the MTUS in California workers’ compensation?
The Medical Treatment Utilization Schedule (MTUS) is California’s official guideline for medically necessary treatment in workers’ compensation cases. It establishes which procedures, therapies, and care frequencies are considered standard for different injury types, helping ensure consistent and evidence-based care.
Who should attend the public hearing?
Physicians, claims administrators, insurers, labor representatives, and other stakeholders are encouraged to participate. The hearing allows attendees to provide input on proposed updates and share perspectives based on practical experience with medical treatment and claims administration.
Can stakeholders submit comments if they cannot attend the hearing?
Yes. Written comments may be submitted online or by mail, and all submissions are considered part of the official record. This ensures that those unable to attend in person can still influence the final revisions.
Why are MTUS updates important for injured workers and employers?
Updates help align treatment guidelines with the latest clinical evidence, improve consistency in claims processing, reduce disputes over care, and clarify coverage rules. For injured workers, this can impact treatment approvals, while employers and insurers gain clearer expectations for claims management and medical costs.