North Carolina Administrative Code
Title 11 - INSURANCE
Chapter 23 - INDUSTRIAL COMMISSION
Subchapter C - NORTH CAROLINA INDUSTRIAL COMMISSION RULES FOR UTILIZATION OF REHABILITATION PROFESSIONALS IN WORKERS' COMPENSATION CLAIMS
Section .0100 - ADMINISTRATION
Section 23C .0108 - INTERACTION WITH PHYSICIANS

(a) At the initial visit with a physician the rehabilitation professional shall provide identification in the form of a company identification or business card and explain the rehabilitation professional's role in the case.

(b) In all cases, the rehabilitation professional shall advise the worker that the worker has the right to a private examination by the health care provider outside of the presence of the rehabilitation professional. If the worker prefers, he or she may request that the rehabilitation professional accompany him or her during the examination. However, if the worker or the worker's attorney notifies the rehabilitation professional in writing that the worker desires a private examination, no subsequent waiver of that right shall be effective unless the waiver is made in writing by the worker or, if represented, by the worker's attorney.

(c) If the rehabilitation professional needs to have an in-person conference with the physician following an examination, the rehabilitation professional shall reserve with the physician sufficient appointment time for the conference. The worker shall be offered the opportunity to attend the conference with the physician. If the worker or the physician does not consent to a joint conference, or if in the physician's opinion it is medically contraindicated for the worker to participate in the conference, the rehabilitation professional shall note this in his or her report, may communicate directly with the physician, and shall report the substance of the communication.

(d) When the rehabilitation professional determines that it is necessary to communicate with a physician other than at a joint meeting, the rehabilitation professional shall first notify the injured worker, or his or her attorney if represented, of the rehabilitation professional's intent to communicate and the reasons therefore. The rehabilitation professional is not required to obtain the injured worker's or his or her attorney's prior consent if:

(e) The following requirements apply to interactions regarding impairment ratings, independent medical examinations, second opinions or consults:

(f) The rehabilitation professional shall simultaneously send to the parties copies of all written communications with health care providers and shall accurately and completely record and report all oral communications.