(a) Upon notification to a miner of such miner's entitlement to benefits, the Office shall provide the miner with a list of authorized treating physicians and medical facilities in the area of the miner's residence. The miner may select a physician from this list or may select another physician with approval of the Office. Where emergency services are necessary and appropriate, authorization by the Office shall not be required.
(b) The Office may, on its own initiative, or at the request of a responsible operator, order a change of physicians or facilities, but only where it has been determined that the change is desirable or necessary in the best interest of the miner. The miner may change physicians or facilities subject to the approval of the Office.
(c) If adequate treatment cannot be obtained in the area of the claimant's residence, the Office may authorize the use of physicians or medical facilities outside such area as well as reimbursement for travel expenses and overnight accommodations.