Lawmakers Exploring Increased Access to Alternative Therapies as Session Nears End

New York lawmakers are considering several proposals that would give injured workers more access to occupational therapy, chiropractic care and acupuncture before the 2016 legislative session ends Thursday. Assembly Bill A02462, by Assemblyman Harry B. Bronson, D-Rochester, would allow licensed or certified acupuncturists to be paid for treating injured workers. Current law limits workers’ compensation reimbursements to licensed physicians and psychologists. Allowing acupuncturists to also treat injured workers would not increase state costs because physicians, not the patient...