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 during the process of having your workers’ comp claim reviewed for approval.
Your Doctor’s Role In The Claims Process
Your employer’s insurance company that handles the workers’ compensation claim relies heavily on the medical report from the doctor to determine the level of your benefits. This doctor also is 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 is not 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.
Learn More About Your Options
Let us help you understand your right to choosing 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.