OAR 436-030-0017: Requests for Claim Closure by the Worker

(1) A worker may request claim closure from the insurer. The insurer must issue a Notice of Closure or Notice of Refusal to Close within 10 days of receipt of a written request for claim closure from the worker or the worker’s attorney . (2) If an insurer issues a Notice of Refusal to Close, the notice must be clearly titled “Notice of Refusal to Close” and it must include: (a) Name of the worker; (b) Date of injury; (c) Insurer’s claim number; (d) Mailing date of the notice; (e) The accepted and denied conditions; (f) Rationale for the insurer’s decision; and (g) The following language, in bold print: "If you disagree with this Notice of Refusal to Close your claim, you must file a letter of disagreement with the Workers’ Compensation Board within sixty (60) days from the date of this notice. Your letter must state that you want a hearing, note your address, and include the date of your accident if known. You must mail your letter of disagreement to the Workers’ Compensation Board, 2601 25th Street SE, Suite 150, Salem, OR 97302-1280 . If your claim qualifies and you request it, you may receive an expedited hearing (within 30 days). Your request cannot, by law, affect your employment. If you do not file your letter of disagreement within sixty (60) days from the date of this notice, your hearing will be denied as the appeal time has passed. You may be represented by an attorney if you choose." (3) If the worker disagrees with the Notice of Refusal to Close, the worker may request a hearing from the board.