Bills Would Allow More Types of Providers to Treat Workers

Two similar bills in the New York Legislature would "modernize" workers' compensation medical care by allowing nurse practitioners, social workers and physical therapists to perform more services. One bill is sponsored by a Republican state senator, the other by a Democratic assemblyman. Senate Bill 8812, sponsored by Sen. Fred Akshar, R-Binghamton, and Assembly Bill 8387, introduced by state Rep. Gary Pretlow, D-Mt. Vernon, would both allow nurse practitioners and social workers to perform independent medical exams in limited circumstances. "A nurse practitioner, or l...