DESIGNATION AS OMBUDSMAN; ELIGIBILITY AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS; CONTINUING EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

(a) At least one specially qualified employee in each division office shall be an ombudsman designated by the office of injured employee counsel, who shall perform the duties under this subchapter as the person's primary responsibility. (b) To be eligible for designation as an ombudsman, a person must: (1) demonstrate satisfactory knowledge of the requirements of: (A) this subtitle and the provisions of Subtitle C that relate to claims management; (B) other laws relating to workers' compensation; and (C) rules adopted under this subtitle and the laws described under Subdivision (1)(B); (2) have demonstrated experience in handling and resolving problems for the general public; and (3) possess strong interpersonal skills. (c) The public counsel shall by rule adopt training guidelines and continuing education requirements for ombudsmen. Training provided under this subsection must: (1) include education regarding this subtitle, rules adopted under this subtitle, and decisions of the appeals panel, with emphasis on benefits and the dispute resolution process; (2) require an ombudsman undergoing training to be observed and monitored by an experienced ombudsman during daily activities conducted under this subchapter; and (3) incorporate the requirements of Section 404.103(b).