Who can set up an MPN?

• A. Employee
• B. Employer alone
• C. Employer, carrier, or TPA on behalf of the employer
• D. State agency

Answer: (C)

In California, a Medical Provider Network (MPN) is the network of approved providers that will treat workers’ compensation injuries, and who sets it up is the party responsible for managing medical care under the claim. The MPN can be established by the employer, by the carrier providing coverage, or by a third-party administrator (TPA) contracted by the employer to handle medical management. This covers self‑insured situations (employer takes the lead) as well as insured situations (carrier sets it up) and allows the TPA to act on behalf of the employer.

An employee doesn’t have the authority to establish the MPN, and a state agency doesn’t set up individual employers’ MPNs. So the option including employer, carrier, or TPA on behalf of the employer best reflects who can establish the network.