Claims Kit

Physician Selection 28-33-8

The employee may choose their first medical care provider. Treatment at an emergency room after the accident or by a company physician does not count as the first medical care provider. The first provider may refer the employee to a specialist without prior approval from the insurer. If the employee decides to change doctors, they must first find out if the employer or insurer has an approved list of physicians, otherwise known as a "preferred provider network". If so, they must either select a physician from that list or get the approval of the employer/insurer before seeing another doctor. If the employer or insurer does not have an approved list of physicians, these restrictions do not apply.

No claim for care or treatment by a physician, dentist, or hospital chosen by an employee is valid and enforceable  against his or her employer, the employer's insurer, or the employee, unless the physician, dentist, or hospital gives written notice of the employee's choice to the employer/insurance carrier within fifteen (15) days after the beginning of the services or treatment. 

Penalties for Late Reporting R.I. Gen. Laws 28-32-2

If the employer does not send in the First Report on time or if it is incomplete, they may be subject to a $250 fine.

Posting Requirements RI General Laws 28-29-13

All employers must disclose to all prospective employees at the time of application either that the employer is subject to or exempt from workers' compensation. If exempt, the specific type of exemption must be disclosed. RI Workers' Compensation Law requires employers to post a notice that includes insurer information.

WC Act Summary Poster

WC Act Summary Poster (Spanish)

Reporting of Claim by Employer R.I. Gen. Laws 28-32-1

A work-related injury requiring medical treatment, where the employee is unable to work for more than three days, or that is fatal must be reported to RIDLT. The employer reports the injury to the workers’ compensation insurer or third-party administrator handling claims. The claim administrator must report the injury electronically to the RIDLT by sending an electronic First Report of Injury (FROI 00). RIDLT no longer accepts paper first reports of injury. Fatalities must be reported within 48 hours. Non-fatal injuries must be reported within 10 days of employer’s knowledge.