TWCC Schedules Public Hearing on Proposed Rule

The Texas Workers’ Compensation Commission reported it has scheduled a public hearing for Jan. 6, 2005. The Commission will take testimony on a rule amendment related to guidelines for certain medical payments proposed at the Nov. 18, 2004, public meeting.

The proposed rule is scheduled to be published in the Texas Register on Dec. 3. 2004, and may be viewed on Commission’s Web site at www.twcc.state.tx.us. All public comments must be received by Jan. 6, 2005, at 5 p.m.

The public hearing will be held in the Tippy Foster Room of the Commission’s central office location at 7551 Metro Center Drive, Suite 100, Austin, Texas, 78744-1609 (near the intersection of Highway 71 and Riverside Drive).

The public hearing will begin at 10 a.m. and the Commission will take
testimony on the following rule:

Chapter 134, Benefits – Guidelines For Medical Services, Charges, And Payments
Rule 134.402, Ambulatory Surgical Center Fee Guideline.

Those persons interested in attending the public hearing may contact the Commission at (512) 804-4435 to confirm the date, time and location. The public hearing schedule is also available on the Commission’s Web site under “Commission Meetings.”

Those who plan to testify should submit 10 written copies of their oral testimony and handouts at the hearing. Visual aid equipment will not be available. Participants may be asked to limit oral presentations by providing a summary of their written testimony.

The Texas Workers’ Compensation Commission offers reasonable accommodations for persons attending meetings, hearings, or educational events, as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act. If special accommodations are required, contact Idalia Cantu at (512) 804-4435 a minimum of two days prior to the hearing date.