provider benefits; employees; injuries; provider

This Arizona bill (SB 1404) amends workers' compensation rules to give injured workers more control over their medical care. It allows injured workers to choose their medical provider, pharmacy, and ancillary services (like lab tests and medical equipment) without employer or insurer interference. The bill also requires translation services for language needs (using certified translators when possible), covers travel costs over 25 miles for medical appointments, and sets clear timelines for benefit payments (first payment within 21 days, then weekly or monthly). These changes directly affect injured workers seeking workers' compensation benefits in Arizona.