CA AB1498

Establishes a statewide medical provider network database for workers' compensation treatment specifically for the San Joaquin Valley region, covering Fresno, Kern, Kings, Madera, Merced, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, and Tulare counties

Allows injured employees to access the statewide network if their employer's medical provider network cannot provide treatment within 30 days of the request

Requires participating physicians to be in good standing with the Medical Board of California, accept the official medical fee schedule, and have been listed on an existing employer/insurer network as of January 1, 2025

Administrative Director of Workers' Compensation must implement the network by January 1, 2027, including rules, procedures, and a continuity of care policy

Addresses physician shortages in the Central Valley region identified by a UC Merced study (December 2024), which found injured workers remain out of work longer due to limited access to medical treatment