Effective January 1, 2005, employer and their insurers now have the right to control injured worker medical treatment through medical provider networks. A permanent disability schedule designed to promote "objectivity and predictibility" is predicted to cut injured worker benefits by 60%. The elimination of "dueling doctors" is expected to reduce litigation.

On the injured worker's side of the balance sheet, employers are now required to provide medical treatment up to $10,000 up to the moment of denial of the claim.

These "reforms", some would call them massive cuts and elimination of choice and due process, are supposed to lead to lower workers' compensation premiums. Keep an eye on the premiums and insurance carrier profits in 2005.