The Importance Of Choosing The Right Doctor

As part of a workers’ compensation claim after a workplace injury, you will be expected to see a doctor who can evaluate and assess your injury. In some cases, your employer selects the doctor, and you must see that doctor. In other situations, you may be able to make the choice yourself.

To have all the information you need when selecting a doctor to see regarding your work injury, turn to our lawyers at Matheson and Horowitz. With our focus on our clients’ best interests and our knowledge of the workers’ compensation laws in Florida, we can provide you with the guidance you need throughout your case.

Can I Choose My Own Doctor?

Florida workers’ compensation law dictates that the employer’s insurance company chooses a doctor for you to see regarding your injury. However, it may be possible for you to choose your own doctor in the event that:

• Your initial claim for workers’ compensation benefits is denied.
• You are not sent to a physician within a certain period of time after you have submitted your request for a medical evaluation in writing.
• Your injury is so severe that you require immediate treatment in the emergency room.
• The insurance company utilizes a managed care arrangement, which would allow you to choose from a number of doctors within a group or network.

You do not always have to stay with the first doctor selected, either by you or the insurance company. You are allowed to change physicians once your workers’ comp claim is reviewed for approval.

Your Doctor’s Role In The Claims Process

Your employer’s insurance company, which handles the workers’ compensation claim, relies heavily on the medical report from the doctor to determine the level of your benefits. This doctor is also the one who dictates when you should return to work and under what circumstances.

The insurance company’s doctor may not be as thorough and may not be looking out for your best interests. Your selected doctor should be. Therefore, it is important to choose the right doctor if you are able to make that choice.

Understanding Your Right To Choose A Doctor

One of the most important decisions you will make when you suffer from workplace injuries is selecting your physician. In Florida, your right to choose a doctor within the workers’ compensation system is limited but significant. At Matheson and Horowitz, our lawyers understand that many injured workers wonder if they can see their physician for work-related injuries. The answer depends on several factors, including state regulations and your employer’s insurance provider.

Most insurance carriers provide a list of approved medical providers. While you may not be free to select any doctor, you have options within this network. We recommend familiarizing yourself with these options before an injury occurs to prepare you for an accident. Understanding your right to choose a doctor can significantly impact your recovery and the benefits you receive.

Questions To Ask Your Workers’ Compensation Doctor

When meeting with your assigned physician, being prepared with the right questions ensures you receive appropriate care. We suggest asking the following:

• What is your experience treating my specific type of work injury?
• Will you provide detailed documentation of how my injury relates to my job duties?
• What restrictions should I follow, and how will they affect my return to work?
• What is your proposed treatment plan and timeline for recovery?
• How frequently will follow-up appointments be necessary?
• Will you refer me to specialists if needed?

These questions help establish clear communication with your doctor and address your medical needs appropriately.

When And How To Request A Change Of Physician

If you believe your assigned doctor is not providing adequate care, you may have the option to request a change. We know that having a trusted medical professional is crucial for recovery. Florida law allows for a one-time change of physician during your workers’ compensation claim.

You must submit a written request to your employer’s insurance carrier to request this change. They typically have five days to provide an alternative physician. If they fail to respond within this timeframe, you may have more freedom in selecting a new doctor.

Learn More About Your Options

Let us help you understand your right to choose a doctor and why it matters to the claims process. Call our Vero Beach office at 772-571-4109 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.