Regulatory Compliance
South Dakota
CorVel is a national provider of industry leading workers’ compensation solutions to South Dakota payors. Incidents and injuries can be reported to our 24/7 call center, to the online claims system or via mobile apps. Reports are immediately processed by our proprietary rules engine where medical management begins immediately as needed, and the claim is assigned to a Claims Adjuster within one business day or less of initial receipt.
Our comprehensive return to work program ensures collaboration and communication with all interested parties including the injured worker, employer, human resources, medical and safety teams, and healthcare providers. We use technology, compassionate case management for employees and cost containment measures, to give South Dakota employers a superior program.
South Dakota Case Law Update July 23, 2025
The South Dakota Supreme Court’s decision in Pham v. Smithfield Foods underscores that injured workers bear the burden of proving their entitlement to workers’ compensation benefits, even when employers have voluntarily paid those benefits for an extended period. In this case, Smithfield Foods had paid medical benefits for over two years following a workplace injury but later ceased payments, arguing the condition was no longer work-related. The Court ruled that because the compensability of the injury had never been formally adjudicated, Smithfield’s prior payments did not shift the burden of proof. This means that voluntary payments do not constitute an admission of liability, and claimants must still establish causation when benefits are challenged. The ruling also reinforces judicial deference to administrative law judges in weighing expert testimony, signaling that employers may more confidently contest ongoing claims and that workers should seek formal recognition of their claims early to avoid future disputes.
Here is the link to the decision: Opinions | South Dakota Supreme Court | SD UJS 30859.pdf
South Dakota Managed Care Organization
The South Dakota SDCL 58-20-24 (effective October 1, 1993) mandates that all workers’ compensation insurers participate in a Managed Care Plan and must include case management and utilization review services.
We are here to help.
CorVel has been certified in South Dakota since October 1, 1994. CorVel’s first notice of loss service provides prompt medical services to an injured worker in an effective manner with timely care. Our utilization review service prevents inappropriate, excessive or unnecessary medical services, while our 24 hour toll-free number directs the employee to an appropriate CorVel facility for necessary care and treatment.
Learn more about CorVel’s comprehensive suite of workers’ compensation solutions, or you can contact a local representative for additional information.
South Dakota Services
- Workers’ compensation claims administration and medical bill review
- Local PPO development and management
- Case management services
South Dakota Resources
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