Prior to the passage of the 2012 workers' compensation reform, only employers or insurers could file MPNs as an "applicant". SB863 allows managed care companies like EK Health to file as both the "applicant" and the "named MPN administrator".

EK Health is now offering EK Health Select MPN to California entities, including employers, self-insureds, insurance companies and TPAs that want the cost containment benefits of an MPN without the time consuming task of having to file for network approval with the DWC.

"We know medical cost is the most expensive part of the workers' compensation claim," said Dr. Douglas Benner, MD, EK Health's Chief Medical Officer. "We also know the value of an MPN in helping to manage those costs."

EK Health Select MPN, which is fully dedicated to quality care for injured workers, has over 3,000 qualified physicians in more than 40 specialties throughout the State of California. Each provider has signed an acknowledgement that they will accept workers' compensation cases and provide treatment in accordance with the Medical Treatment Utilization Schedule (MTUS) and evidenced-based medicine.

Additionally, EK Health Select MPN providers abide by customized agreements that have a direct impact on medical costs and claim outcomes. An example is the physician agreement not to dispense medications to patients except in emergency situations.

EK Health’s objective is to use this opportunity to bring the benefits of EK Health Select MPN to more California employers by delivering quality, cost-saving and efficient outcome-based medical treatment to their injured workers.

For more information about EK Health Select MPN, please visit www.ekhealth.com/provider

Founded in 1998 and headquartered in San Jose, CA, EK Health Services, Inc., is a URAC accredited workers' compensation utilization management company. A leader in national workers’ compensation managed care services, EK Health specializes in case management, utilization review, peer review, medical bill review, Medicare Set Aside , Medical Network Provider services for insurance companies, employers, for-profits and public entities. EK Health has representatives in multiple states.

Dr. Benner: Douglas Benner, EK Health Chief Medical Officer

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