SFM has contracted with CorVel Corp. to provide managed care services to SFM policyholders in South Dakota.

South Dakota requires insurers to provide employers with access to certified managed care organizations that provide case management services. Case management assures quality care for injured employees and helps facilitate communications among the medical provider, employer and insurer.

A new state deadline on paying medical bills makes it even more important for employers to pass workers’ compensation medical bills along to SFM right away.

Under a new law passed by the 2008 South Dakota Legislature, insurers must respond to medical bills within 30 days or face $500 penalties. The insurer must pay, deny, or request additional information regarding the bill within the deadline.

The 30-day deadline, effective July 1, is similar to the statutory requirement in Minnesota.

The maximum weekly compensation rate increases to $597 effective July 1, according to the South Dakota Department of Labor. The minimum weekly rate increases to $299.