WAC 296-20-03019   Under what conditions will the department or self-insurer pay for oral opioid treatment for chronic, noncancer pain?  Chronic, noncancer pain may develop after an acute injury episode. It is defined as pain that typically persists beyond two to four months following the injury.

     The department or self-insurer may pay for oral opioids for the treatment of chronic, noncancer pain caused by an accepted condition when that treatment is proper and necessary. See WAC 296-20-01002 for the definition of "proper and necessary" health care services.



[Statutory Authority: RCW 51.04.020 and 51.04.030. 00-01-040, § 296-20-03019, filed 12/7/99, effective 1/20/00.]