BWC’s medical advisor has developed medical position papers to assist providers in making treatment decisions, which support cost-effective medical care focused on minimizing the physical, emotional and financial impact of a work-related injury or illness and promotes a safe return to work. You should use these documents, designed using current medical information and objective research, as reference tools. They are not intended to direct medical care or to authorize medical treatment.

To download and/or print a position paper, click on the appropriate title below.

2007
Cardiac clearance for surgical procedures - October
DEP evaluator impairment training policy - October
DEP reimbursement policy - October
Maintenance/destruction of medical records by DEP examiners and their designees - October
Intradiscal electrothermal (IDET) treatment for low back pain - January

2005
Use of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) for musculoskeletal problems - September
Artificial lumbar disc - February

2004
Cardiovascular conditions alleged to be caused by use of Vioxx® - November
Low level laser therapy - September
Authorization of payment for prescription medication in select medical conditions - January
Botulinum toxin (Botox) injection for treatment of chronic myofascial pain - January
Utilizing prescription medications for the treatment of intractable pain - January
Osteoporosis, bone densitometry and treatment of osteoporosis - January