#United States #Denver #Colorado #Workers' Compensation #Clinical Excellence

Colorado Sets New Standards for Psychological Evaluations in Workers' Compensation

In a significant development for mental health care in the workplace, the Colorado Center for Clinical Excellence (CCCE) has announced a new set of standards that will reshape psychological evaluations for workers' compensation cases across the state. Effective January 1, 2026, these enhancements—adopted by the Colorado Division of Workers' Compensation—will ensure that the documentation accompanying psychological evaluations is more comprehensive, clear, and clinically rigorous.

Overview of the New Framework

The changes to Rule 18-4(G)(4)(b) follow the recommendations made by clinicians at CCCE. Their proposed model language aims to promote clarity and consistency in Mental Impairment Rating (MIR) reports, which are essential for treatment planning and impairment assessments. Notably, the new rules also extend beyond MIRs to all psychological diagnostic evaluations governed by Rule 18, significantly enhancing the strength of evaluations used statewide.

This comprehensive set of guidelines now requires evaluators to:
1. Analyze symptoms and diagnoses comprehensively.
2. Evaluate cognitive functioning, including practical examples of how this impacts daily life.
3. Assess Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), reflecting on a patient's functional status.
4. Review collateral communications that are relevant to the patient’s treatment.
5. Document psychotropic medications and outline specific treatment goals.
6. Examine laboratory and diagnostic studies pertinent to the psychological evaluation.
7. Summarize treatment history alongside future care recommendations.
8. Identify functional deficits that are relevant to impairment ratings when applicable.

With these requirements, Colorado is stepping forward as a trailblazer by establishing one of the most articulate standards for psychological evaluation documentation in the United States.

Importance of the New Standards

The adoption of this comprehensive framework signifies a crucial step toward enhancing clinical quality and transparency within the state's Workers' Compensation system. It is designed to provide actionable, clinically sound information that supports all stakeholders involved—providers, insurers, attorneys, and return-to-work coordinators. Central to these changes is the priority placed on clarity and consistency, particularly for employees trying to navigate their recovery and return to work.

Leadership Insights

Jason Seidel, Psy.D., CGP, Director of the CCCE, expressed the organization's commitment to maintaining high standards in psychological reporting, stating, "Our contribution to these standards reflects our belief that clarity and depth in psychological reporting are essential to good care. We aim for clinical rigor that serves patients and providers harmoniously."

In addition, Michael Pipich, LMFT, the Director of Workers' Compensation Services, noted the dedication of their clinical team and emphasized the importance of continual improvement, stating, "While we take pride in our work, we remain focused on continuous improvement to ensure thoughtful, thorough care."

About CCCE

The Colorado Center for Clinical Excellence, a practice operating within ARC Health Partners, focuses on mental health services, clinician training, and effective psychotherapy practices. CCCE is recognized as a leader in providing specialized evaluations for workers' compensation and strives to offer the highest quality of care to its patients throughout the Denver metropolitan area, with locations in Denver and Greenwood Village.

As these new standards come into effect, the CCCE and the Colorado Division of Workers' Compensation hope to foster a more transparent and supportive environment for all individuals undergoing psychological evaluations in the context of workers' compensation claims.

For more information about the Colorado Center for Clinical Excellence, visit thecoloradocenter.com.