Can I Pick My Workers Comp Doctors?
Have you been injured at work? Do you need medical treatment for the injury. Are wondering which doctor to see? Worker’s compensation laws are specific. Vary from state to state. First, you need to get the medical attention you need. But you want to make sure you see the right doctor so you don’t mess up your worker’s comp case.
Read on to learn about workers comp doctors, which one you can see so your case is safe.
Understanding Workers Compensation
Worker’s compensation is a type of insurance. In most states, it’s required that employers purchase worker’s compensation insurance. The insurance is intended to protect the employer. Their business in the event of their employees get injured on the job. Yet, it also protects employees too. The caveat in receiving benefits is following all the rules. Some would say jumping through the hoops for the insurance company.
Remember, this is not your insurance company. Instead, it represents your employer’s interests.
So, if you have been injured at work, it’s important to follow the correct procedures to make sure your case isn’t dismissed and you get no benefits from the worker’s compensation policy.
Seeking Medical Treatment
There are different kinds of injuries or illnesses that can happen at work. There is an emergency type from an accident. There is also an accident resulting in an injury that might not be emergent in nature. Illnesses can also occur from workplace conditions.
If you are injured at work and it’s an emergency, you can most likely see any doctor, at least initially. The fact that the injury is an emergency waives the need to only see a certain doctor.
If you have a non-emergent injury or need to follow up care, then then you need to see workers comp doctors.
Here is where the laws vary from state to state. In a few states, you can see the doctor of your choice. It should be noted that many doctors choose not to handle workers comp cases.
In most states, after the emergency has passed, you will be required to see a doctor approved by the worker’s comp insurance.
Steps to Follow
Be sure to follow the correct procedures so as not to be denied benefits.
Once you are injured, notify your employer as quickly as it’s safely possible to do so. They are required to notify the insurance company. Give you the necessary paperwork.
When you see a worker’s comp doctor, they will examine and develop a treatment plan. They will also complete paperwork needed for the insurance company.
They can also do referrals if more specialized care is needed or prescribed.
If you become involved in a dispute over benefits, you may opt to see a doctor of your own choice for another opinion. Be sure to seek legal counsel so as not to bumble your case.
Finding the Best Workers Comp Doctors
The good thing about workers comp doctors is they know how the cases work. They have worked with insurance companies. Understand their expectations.
To know how to find a workers comp doctor follow the link.
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