GQ Corner

Q. When an employee travels for healthcare that is not available within 30 miles of his residence, do I also need to pay for his meals? Does this include the meals of everyone that travels with him?

A. 134.110(d)(4) provides: “When an injured employee’s travel expenses reasonably include food and lodging, the insurance carrier shall reimburse for the actual expenses not to exceed the current rate for state employees on the date the expense is incurred.” As such, you would owe for the injured employee’s meal(s), if reasonable, but not anyone else’s. Additionally, the amount of reimbursement is subject to the maximum rate for state employees on the date the expense is incurred.

Q. If a Bona Fide Offer of Employment is mailed to the injured employee, how long do I have to wait before suspending benefits?

A. If the injured employee declines the offer, you may immediately suspend. If you do not receive a response, you must wait 12 days. A mailed communication is deemed received five days after it is mailed, and you must wait seven days after receipt before you can deny.