1. A. The main objective of the carrier/self-insured employer is to maintain the claimant in a home environment, thus avoiding prolonged or repeated hospitalization.
2. B. Written authorization detailing the approved modifications and their exact cost must be issued prior to the initiation of work to be done.

3. C. When a request for modification or repair of a dwelling is considered, the request must contain verification that the dwelling is owned by the claimant or that there is an agreement with the owner for long-term residence. Modifications and repairs will be made after a determination by carrier/self-insured employer staff as to needs in accordance with the following guidelines.

   1. 1. Home modifications considered by the carrier/self-insured employer will be limited to the interior of a residence with the exception of ramps, lifts, and porches necessary for access to and exit from the home. However, when the existing residence is constructed in such a manner as to severely limit the claimant's mobility, the carrier/self-insured employer may consider additional exterior modifications. Items that may not be included in a bid for a room addition include medicine cabinets, special lighting, special doorways (double doors, sliding glass doors, etc.) decks or porches (wider than what is necessary for accessibility).
   2. 2. When it is determined that the reasonable rearrangement of existing furniture, fixtures, appliances, etc. will eliminate barriers and make the dwelling accessible, the carrier/self-insured employer will not approve any interior modification.
4. D. The purchase of special appliances or devices will be made when such will promote a return to work, overcome a need for hospitalization or special nursing, and/or substantially improve the mobility of the claimant. Each case will be considered on an individual basis.
5. E. Inspection and acceptance of the modifications should be made by the carrier/self-insured employer prior to final payment.

Authority Note

AUTHORITY NOTE: Promulgated in accordance with R.S. 23:1034.2.

Historical Note

HISTORICAL NOTE: Promulgated by the Department of Labor, Office of Workers' Compensation, LR 19:54 (January 1993), repromulgated LR 19:212 (February 1993), amended LR 20:1299 (November 1994).