Rhode Island § 28-33-10 - Workers’ Compensation — Benefits

§ 28-33-10. “Dental, hospital, and medical services” defined.

(a) “Dental services” as used in §§ 28-33-5 — 28-33-9 includes services rendered in making, repairing, and replacing artificial teeth and dentures.

(b) “Hospital services” as used in §§ 28-33-5 — 28-33-9 includes any and all services normally furnished by the hospital for the care of patients.

(c) “Medical services” as used in §§ 28-33-5 — 28-33-9 includes palliative care services by a physician licensed by the state for twelve (12) visits, after reaching maximum medical improvement. Additional palliative care must be authorized by the insurer or self-insured employer. A request for additional palliative care must be submitted to the insurer or self-insured employer at least ten (10) working days prior to delivery of the services and shall include a treatment plan, including a time schedule of measurable objectives, a projected termination date of treatment, and an estimated total cost of services. The director shall promulgate rules governing a request for additional palliative care and review of any decision relating to it. Any disputes as to the definition of “palliative care” shall be resolved by the medical advisory board. These limitations on palliative care shall not apply to any conditions for which a contrary treatment protocol has been established by the medical advisory board.