Bills Filed to Authorize Carriers to Continue Discount Contracts

By Bill Kidd, Central Bureau ChiefTwo Texas state lawmakers have filed identical legislation in the House of Representatives and Senate to allow workers' compensation carriers to contract with health care providers for discounts below the rates set by the Division of Workers' Compensation in its fee schedule.House Bill 528 by Rep. Burt Solomons, R-Carrollton, and Senate Bill 318 by Sen. Leticia Van de Putte, D-San Antonio, are intended to resolve whether contracts for pharmacy benefit services through so-called "voluntary" or "informal" networks could continue after Jan. 1.Workers'...