HI HB1961

Replaces unilateral employer-ordered medical examinations with a mutual agreement process requiring both employer and employee to agree on the physician conducting independent medical examinations and permanent impairment rating examinations.

Establishes a physician selection process where if parties cannot agree within five working days, they jointly create a list of five physicians and alternately strike names until one remains.

Requires the cover letter notifying the selected physician be sent to the injured worker at least five working days before the appointment, and the employee must receive a copy of the examination report.

Allows out-of-state physicians to be selected only with director approval if no Hawaii-licensed physician is available in the required specialty, or if the employee resides out-of-state.

Limits examinations to one independent medical examination and one permanent impairment rating examination per case unless valid medical reasons exist, with examinations to be completed within forty-five calendar days of physician selection.

Effective July 1, 2112 with sunset date of June 30, 2018 (note: effective date appears to contain a typographical error).