Evidence status: CURRENT WORKERS’ COMPENSATION MONITORING AND TAPER FRAMEWORK. Minnesota’s workers’ compensation opioid rule imposes structured follow-up, PMP review, urine testing, and taper requirements tied to the written treatment contract.

Follow-up schedule

Follow-up visits must occur at least quarterly during the first year and at least annually thereafter. Patients taking more than 120 MME per day must be seen at least every three months. High-risk patients must be seen monthly for the first six months and every three months afterward.

Pain and function monitoring

At each follow-up visit, the provider must reassess pain and function using the same validated tools used at baseline and evaluate side effects, misuse, aberrant behavior, contraindications, and adherence to the treatment program.

PMP review

The provider must review the patient’s Minnesota Prescription Monitoring Program history at least every six months. For patients above 120 MME per day or at high risk of dependence or abuse, the PMP must be reviewed at every follow-up visit.

Urine drug testing

The provider has discretion to order urine drug testing generally, but testing is mandatory at least twice per year for patients above 120 MME per day or at high risk of dependence or abuse.

Required discontinuation in defined situations

Repeated unreported opioid prescriptions from other providers or a failed urine drug test can trigger required discontinuation under the rule.

Tapering and alternative care

If long-term opioid treatment is discontinued, the provider must prescribe a tapering schedule and ancillary medication as needed to minimize withdrawal, taking into account the opioid type, dose, and duration. Alternative pain-management treatment or referral must be offered.

Payment-compliance notice

A provider’s failure to comply with the rule is not immediately a basis for denying payment. The insurer must first send the provider and patient a copy of the rule and give the provider at least 30 days to initiate a compliance plan.

Primary source

• Minn. R. 5221.6110, subps. 8-10

Reviewed: October 5, 2026.