The next chapter in the modernization of the New York State Workers' Compensation Board, OnBoard, is well underway! The Board is building a new claims system that will replace our multiple legacy, paper-based claims systems with a single, web-based platform.

As of May 2022, the first, limited release of OnBoard is successfully up and running! Health care providers and payers are using the new system to submit and review prior authorization requests for medical treatment - all online.

As we expand OnBoard to include more processes and stakeholders, the goals are to create a system that improves and expands access to real-time claim data, offers new electronic self-service features for interacting with the Board, and reduces the amount of paper forms used in the workers' compensation system.

The Board is advancing the OnBoard program in the following areas:

eForm expansion

The Board continues to expand its use of eForms. The eForm process is "wizard-based," meaning it walks users through fillable fields within the eForm. The wizard provides numerous fields for users to enter pertinent information, allowing for quicker, more efficient Board processing and response. eForms can be submitted within eCase. The Board also provides organizations with the option to submit eForms using Application Programming Interface (API) and XML. To learn more about all electronic submittal options, please visit our eForms page.

The paper version of the Request for Further Action by Legal Counsel (Form RFA-1LC) has been transitioned to this intelligent, online submission and routing process.

As of April 8, 2026, use of the new Request for Further Action by Insurer/Employer (RFA-2) eForm is mandatory for all payers. The Board is not accepting or acting on paper RFA-2 forms postmarked after April 7, 2026. This latest accomplishment in the ongoing OnBoard modernization effort is expected to be an important part of producing optimal system performance for all stakeholders.

OnBoard full program

The Board is currently in the execution phase of several important projects focused on modernizing our core Claims system. This includes implementing upgrades to eCase to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and the user experience for staff and stakeholders. We are refining our OnBoard system access processes to simplify user authentication and permissions to ensure a seamless and secure experience for all users.

We are eager to introduce these upcoming enhancements to OnBoard and look forward to providing further updates as these initiatives progress.

Intro To OnBoard Video

OnBoard is one of several key initiatives borne out of the Board’s Business Process Re-Engineering (BPR) Program – a multi-year effort designed to redefine the Board’s role in the workers’ compensation system, improve access to quality medical care and improve the underlying technology systems that support the organization. Many BPR initiatives have already been implemented, including virtual hearings, release of an updated medical fee schedule for Board-authorized providers, implementing performance standards to improve payer compliance, and improving the Board’s dispute resolution processes.

• See the original BPR recommendations [PPT].