IMR Applications, UR Uphold Rate Both Increase in 2025

The number of eligible applications for independent medical review increased to 152,832 in 2025 from 148,106 in 2024 while the proportion of decisions affirming the underlying utilization review determination rebounded last year, according to a new report by the California Division of Workers’ Compensation. Overall, the DWC reports that 152,243 independent medical review final determination letters were issued in 2025, up from 141,621 in 2024. Those IMR decisions upheld 87.3% of UR decisions in 2024, the lowest uphold rate since the launch of the program created through the SB 863 refo...