The Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) updated its rules to recognize more types of medical professionals as acceptable sources of evidence in disability claims. This change aligns with updates from the Social Security Administration and reflects changes in how healthcare is delivered. New additions include licensed school psychologists, podiatrists, speech-language pathologists, audiologists, advanced practice registered nurses, and physician assistants/associates. Public comments generally supported these updates, and the RRB made adjustments based on feedback, like recognizing both "physician assistant" and "physician associate" titles.
Simple Explanation
The Railroad Retirement Board has updated its rules to let more types of doctors and health experts, like nurses and speech therapists, help figure out if train workers are too sick or hurt to work, just like similar rules from another big group that helps people.