OAR 438-013-0030: Hearings in Expedited Claims; Informal Dispute Resolution

(1) OAR 438-007-0018 does not apply to the Expedited Claim Service. The insurer’s representative shall bring all medical and vocational reports, records of compensation paid, and all other documents pertaining to the claim to the hearing. The Administrative Law Judge shall, before convening the hearing, determine whether the case may be resolved informally or decided on agreed facts. (2) If the case can be decided on agreed facts, the agreement of the facts shall be stated on the oral record. No testimony shall be taken and the record shall be closed upon oral argument, if any, on behalf of the parties. (3) If the case cannot be decided on agreed facts, the Administrative Law Judge shall so state on the oral record of the hearing or in the order. The Administrative Law Judge shall admit into evidence those documents furnished by the insurer that are relevant to a determination of the dispute, along with any other relevant documents offered by the claimant. (4) It is the intent of the Board in adopting these rules that all cases under the Expedited Claim Service be heard and decided quickly and fairly. Administrative Law Judges shall take an active role in the hearing. (5) Unless more time is allowed in advance after a showing of good cause, no hearing under the expedited Claims Service shall be scheduled to exceed one hour in duration.