Getting Lumbar Fusion Surgery Just Became Tougher

The Bureau of Workers’ Compensation began cracking down on lumbar fusion surgeries last week with the country’s most restrictive rule that requires at least 60 days of alternative, conservative therapy before a patient can see the operating room. The new rule was triggered by data showing that lumbar fusion surgery leads to prevalent opioid use, high rates of disability and longer workers’ compensation claims. Ohio is one of four monopolistic states and requires employers to obtain workers’ compensation coverage from a compulsory state fund. North Dakota, Washington a...