Under California Labor Code 4610, who may modify, delay, or deny a request for medical treatment?

• A. Nurse approved by the employer
• B. The patient’s attorney
• C. Only a licensed physician
• D. Insurance adjuster

Answer: (C)

Under California Labor Code 4610, medical treatment decisions must be made by a licensed physician. The treating physician has the authority to approve, modify, or deny a requested medical treatment based on medical necessity, clinical judgment, and the employee’s condition. Non-physician roles—such as an employer-approved nurse, an insurance adjuster, or the employee’s attorney—do not have independent authority to change or halt medical care; they can facilitate processes, request reviews, or escalate through proper channels, but ultimate medical decisions come from a physician. This physician-led framework protects the quality and safety of care by ensuring treatment decisions are grounded in medical expertise.