725.706—Authorization to provide medical services.
(a)
Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, medical services from an authorized provider which are payable under § 725.701 shall not require prior approval of the Office or the responsible operator.
(b)
Except where emergency treatment is required, prior approval of the Office or the responsible operator shall be obtained before any hospitalization or surgery, or before ordering an apparatus for treatment where the purchase price exceeds $300. A request for approval of non-emergency hospitalization or surgery shall be acted upon expeditiously, and approval or disapproval will be given by telephone if a written response cannot be given within 7 days following the request. No employee of the Department of Labor, other than a district director or the Chief, Branch of Medical Analysis and Services, DCMWC, is authorized to approve a request for hospitalization or surgery by telephone.
(c)
Payment for medical services, treatment, or an apparatus shall be made at no more than the rate prevailing in the community in which the providing physician, medical facility or supplier is located.