DWC Corrects PLN-3b Error
In February 2020, the Division made changes to its PLN-3b. (Notice of MMI and Permanent Impairment). The intent was to take the prior PLN-3b and to simply increase the font size. This was pursuant to Division rule 124.2(s) which was amended January 12, 2020 and provided that all notices to claimants required under this section must be stated in plain language and in no less than 12-point font. The change was to take effect on April 1, 2020.
However, FOL identified an error on the PLN-3b (revised February 2020). Following a series of communications with the Division, the Division made a change to the PLN-3b on June 16, 2020. The revised form is now listed on the DWC forms page of the Division’s website.
The PLN-3b revised February 2020 failed to include a box for the carrier to make a reasonable assessment of the impairment rating. The PLN-3b revised June 2020 now includes that box. Specifically, the box is at the bottom of page one of the PLN-3b. The carrier should check that box if the carrier does not agree with the doctor’s impairment rating, in which case, the carrier will assess an impairment rating which it will identify on the PLN-3b.
Please make sure that your staff is NOT using the PLN-3b revised February 2020 but rather is using the PLN-3b, revised June 2020.
If you have any questions, please contact James R. Sheffield, III at (512) 435.2169 or JRS@fol.com.
FOLIO
