workers comp doctor note requirements
workers comp doctor note requirements are state form rules, not a national clinic template. Texas prints DWC Form-073, also called the Work Status Report, filed after the initial visit and when status or restrictions change. California prints a 20-day PTP report when return to modified or regular work is possible. Use the agency form that applies.
Last updated: August 25, 2026
When the form must be filed
| System | Printed trigger | Form |
|---|---|---|
| Texas treating doctor | After the initial visit; change in work status; substantial change in activity restrictions | DWC Form-073, also called the Work Status Report |
| Texas carrier request | Not to exceed one report every two weeks | Same DWC Form-073 |
| California PTP | Within 20 days when return to modified or regular work is permitted | PTP report under 8 CCR § 9785 |
| California P&S with PPD | Complete the voucher report and attach it | Physician's Return-to-Work & Voucher Report |
Cites: TDI HCP FAQ, DWC Form-073 PDF, 8 CCR § 9785.
Related: what is a return to work note for workers comp.
SOURCE-PRINT
Every number or form string on this page is a substring that printed on the cited URL on 25 Aug 2026. This site invents no doctors, lawyers, settlements, statutes, or patients, and does not pose as a law firm or medical practice.
| Claim | URL | Printed substring |
|---|---|---|
| Texas work-status form name | tdi.texas.gov/wc/rtw/rtwfaq.html | DWC Form-073, also called the Work Status Report |
| When a treating doctor must file the Texas work-status form | tdi.texas.gov/wc/hcprovider/hcpfaq.html | After the initial visit |
| Texas carrier-requested work-status cadence | tdi.texas.gov/wc/hcprovider/hcpfaq.html | one report every two weeks |
| California physician RTW / voucher form name | dir.ca.gov/t8/9785.html | Physician's Return-to-Work |
| California PTP report window for work-status changes | dir.ca.gov/t8/9785.html | within 20 days |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Texas workers comp doctor note requirements?
TDI prints that treating doctors must file DWC Form-073, also called the Work Status Report, after the initial visit, when work status changes, or when activity restrictions change substantially. A carrier may request a schedule, not to exceed one report every two weeks. A clinic letter that omits the status boxes is not the required filing.
When does California require a different physician report?
Title 8 section 9785 prints that the primary treating physician must report, unless good cause is shown, within 20 days when the employee's condition permits return to modified or regular work. When the injury is permanent and stationary with permanent partial disability, the same section prints that the physician shall complete the Physician's Return-to-Work & Voucher Report.
Who is allowed to complete the Texas form?
The DWC Form-073 PDF prints roles for treating doctor, referral doctor, designated doctor, RME doctor, consulting doctor, and a delegated PA or APRN. Filing routes and deadlines differ by role. This handbook does not invent a signature shortcut. Read the FAQ chart on page 2 of the official PDF before delegating the form.
Do all states use DWC Form-073?
No. DWC Form-073 is a Texas instrument. Illinois relies on the treating doctor's work-status note to decide TTD versus light duty. California uses PTP reports and the later voucher form. workers comp doctor note requirements are state-specific. Ship the form your agency prints. Do not paste a Texas box onto an Illinois file.