California’s Division of Workers’ Compensation is seeking public comment on proposed Medical Provider Network regulations that would make online provider directories accessible without passwords and change how network operators submit materials to the agency. DWC has scheduled a December 11, 2026, hearing, with written comments due the same day.
Directory access and network filings
The directory proposal would require Medical Provider Networks, or MPNs, to publish provider listings on their websites in a format people can access without logging in. According to DWC, the changes would also clarify directory listing requirements and provide additional guidance on telehealth, remote services and network access standards.
For network applicants, the proposal would allow certain materials to be submitted electronically and reduce the required number of copies from two to one. It would also establish a process for terminating networks no longer in use and simplify resubmissions of previously approved plans that have not changed.
How to participate
The public hearing begins at 1 p.m. December 11. Participants may attend by video conference, telephone or in person at the Elihu M. Harris State Building, 1515 Clay Street, Room 1 on the second floor, in Oakland. Remote participation details are available in DWC’s hearing notice.
Written comments may be emailed to dwcrules@dir.ca.gov, faxed to (510) 286-0687 or mailed to Maureen Gray, Regulations Coordinator, Department of Industrial Relations, P.O. Box 420603, San Francisco, CA 94142. DWC says it will consider all public comments.
Announced October 23, the changes remain proposals, not adopted requirements. They cover Title 8, California Code of Regulations, sections 9767.1 through 9767.19, and also address electronic-signature and telehealth definitions and complaint confidentiality. DWC directs readers to its Medical Provider Networks Regulations webpage for the proposed text, rulemaking notice and initial statement of reasons.
