Choosing a deductible for workers' comp medical benefits

(a) Each workers' compensation insurance policy issued by every insurer shall offer, at the option of the insured employer, a deductible for medical benefits in the amount of $100, $150, $200, $300, $400, $500, $2,500, $5,000, or $10,000, or greater if agreed upon by the insurer and the insured employer. The insured employer, if choosing to exercise the option, shall choose only one of the amounts as the deductible. The provisions of this subsection shall be fully disclosed to the prospective purchaser in writing. (b) If an insured employer exercises the option and chooses a deductible, the insured employer shall be liable for the amount of the deductible for the medical benefits paid for each claim of work injury suffered by an injured employee. The insurer shall not be liable for the deductible. The insurer shall pay the entire cost of medical bills directly to the provider of services and then seek reimbursement from the insured for the deductible amount. Deductible medical benefit amounts shall be reported by insurers as required by section 386-95 and shall be included in the total average annual compensation paid by all insurance carriers in determining the charge against employers not insured under section 386-121(a)(1) for the purpose of the special compensation fund.