If there is no MPN, after how many days does the employer choose a physician of choice?

• A. 15 days
• B. 30 days
• C. 60 days
• D. 90 days

Answer: (B)

When there is no Medical Provider Network in place, the employer must ensure the injured worker has a treating physician without long delays. The allowed window for the employer to designate a physician of choice is 30 days from the time the injury is known. This 30-day period is designed to get medical care started promptly under the employer’s control, instead of leaving the worker without a designated provider. Going shorter would risk insufficient time to arrange care, while longer windows could delay treatment and raise compliance concerns. If care is started sooner due to emergency needs, that is handled as needed, but for non-emergency treatment, the physician of choice should be designated within 30 days.