Oregon 2017 Workers' Compensation Fee Schedule Explained

What Is the 2017 Oregon Workers' Compensation Fee Schedule?

The Oregon Workers' Compensation Fee Schedule is a standardized list that sets the maximum amount employers can charge when filing claims for workplace injuries. In 2017, the schedule was updated to reflect new medical costs and administrative fees, ensuring consistency across all claims processed by the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI).

Key Components of the 2017 Schedule

The fee schedule is divided into three main categories:

• Medical and Surgical Services: Fees for doctors, surgeons, and related medical procedures.
• Rehabilitation and Therapy: Costs for physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
• Administrative and Miscellaneous: Fees for case management, legal services, and other claim-related expenses.

How Fees Are Calculated

Each service type has a predetermined fee per unit or per service. For example, a routine office visit might cost $45, while a surgical procedure could be capped at $2,300. Employers submit these fees to BOLI, which reviews and approves them before payment.

Impact on Employers and Claimants

By standardizing fees, the 2017 schedule reduced the potential for inflated billing and helped employers manage payroll taxes more predictably. Claimants benefited from clearer cost expectations and faster claim resolutions.

Comparing 2016 and 2017 Schedules

In 2017, several key changes were made:

• Medical fees increased by an average of 4% to account for inflation.
• New categories were added for telehealth services.
• Administrative fee caps were lowered by 2% to streamline processing.

Where to Find the Official Schedule

Employers and claimants can access the full 2017 fee schedule on the BOLI website. The document is available as a PDF and includes detailed tables for each service category.

Legacy and Transition to Current Schedules

While the 2017 schedule is no longer current, its structure influenced subsequent updates. Employers should verify the latest schedule before filing new claims to ensure compliance with updated fee caps.