NY S05421

Adds "massage therapist" to the definition of authorized healthcare providers under workers' compensation law, defining them as licensed practitioners who have completed formal education and passed an examination in accordance with education law and Board of Regents requirements.

Allows injured employees to receive massage therapy treatment upon prescription or referral from an authorized physician, physician assistant, podiatrist, or nurse practitioner, provided the treatment falls within the scope of practice authorized by education law.

Requires massage therapists to maintain records of patient condition, progress, and treatment instructions, with records submitted to the Workers' Compensation Board chair as required.

Specifies that records, reports, or opinions from massage therapists cannot be used as evidence of causal relationship to work-related accidents, occupational diseases, or disability.

Takes effect on the thirtieth day after becoming law.