If you have a workers’ compensation claim because of a work-related accident or illness, you will need to seek medical care from a company-approved doctor. If you disagree with the opinion of this physician regarding your condition, diagnoses, or treatment, you might want a second opinion. You can seek a second opinion, but it is complicated process that must be followed in detail. You will need to have the guidance of a workers’ compensation attorney who is representing you throughout the claims process. Getting the Second Opinion The laws regarding getting a second opinion for your medical situation in a workers’ compensation claim vary from one state to another, but you can basically always get a second opinion. Whether or not the workers’ compensation insurance has to cover this cost varies as well, but often, it is no. If you have not been satisfied with the treatment you have received from the company-approved doctor, you will need to talk with your workers’ compensation lawyer who can help you go through the process properly. With the help of an attorney, you can get your second opinion using the right approach. Medical Care Through Workers’ Compensation In many states, your employer and their insurer must give you a choice of physicians. Usually, they must provide at least three company-approved doctors that you can choose from. Under specific circumstances, you can request a switch of physicians if you are not happy with the physician that you have been seeing for your care. Sometimes this requires a written request or filling out specific paperwork that explains why you want to change medical providers. Usually, you can only change medical providers once throughout the duration of a claim. Because this process can be challenging, you should have your workers’ compensation attorney to lead you through the process and help you get your claim on track. Workers’ Compensation Benefits In addition to medical care, workers’ compensation covers about two-thirds of your regular salary. However, your employer and their insurer will only take the opinions and recommendations of a company-approved physician into consideration. That means if your excuse for work is not from a company-approved physician, you will not be paid for that time off. That is why it is imperative to follow the proper procedures when getting a second opinion, especially in the event the second provider has a different opinion than the initial provider. Consult With a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer If you have suffered an injury or illness that is work-related, you should consult with a workers’ compensation attorney. Strict statutes of limitations apply, so missing a deadline could result in the loss of all benefits. An attorney can handle your claim efficiently and effectively. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to have the details of your case shared with an lawyer in your state who is familiar with such cases. Your odds of a successful claim improve greatly with an lawyer representing you. Additional Resources Am I Required to Follow My Doctor's Orders after a Workplace Injury? My Employer Wants Me To Get Checked By A Doctor They Hired…Do I Need To Go?
