Colorado DIME Rule Changes - HR ALERTS
- Regina Dyerly, SHRBP, PHR
- Apr 29
- 1 min read
Colorado DIME (Division Independent Medical Examination) Rule Changes
Effective: April 1, 2025
In workers’ compensation cases, a Division Independent Medical Examination (DIME) is used when there is a dispute about an employee’s Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) status or permanent impairment rating. Unlike regular workers’ comp medical visits, a DIME is an independent evaluation governed by strict rules set by the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC).
Key Updates:
New Fee Structure: A $1,000 deposit is required before scheduling a DIME exam. Physicians will bill time in 15-minute increments.
Updated Medical Records Process: Medical records must be submitted to the DIME Medical Records Unit, which will organize and deliver the packet to the physician.
New Forms: New forms are required for DIME requests (WC77), rescheduling (WC198), and terminations (WC199).
Follow-Up DIMEs: All follow-up DIMEs requested on or after April 1, 2025, must comply with the new rules.
Interpreter Changes: New interpreter usage guidelines and associated penalties apply.
Stronger Timelines and Penalties: Revised procedures include penalties for late rescheduling, incomplete medical record submissions, and terminations.
Action Needed:
Ensure that any DIME applications, reschedules, or terminations filed on or after April 1, 2025, comply with the new rules and updated forms.
For more information, visit the DIME Program Updates Webpage.
Get day-to-day updates on Colorado DIME Rule Changes visit the Vida HR Knowledge Center (Vida HR Clients Exclusive).
Comments