When you’re hurt on the job, you want to see your doctor right away—you may have received care at their practice for years, so they’re the ones you would turn to. But can you choose your own doctor after a work accident? It may not be so simple.
After an Indianapolis work accident, it’s your employer’s responsibility to take care of your medical care and workers comp benefits. But when you’re hurt, you may want some control over your recovery. If you’re concerned about your medical care, especially if you’re unhappy with the doctor, you may need help getting answers for your workers comp claim.
Your Employer Makes the Call
When you’re hurt on the job, your employer has the right to choose your doctor. That’s because they’re financially responsible for your care. Unfortunately, they may not approve your existing doctor.
Worse, you could lose a lot if you refuse care from your employer’s choice of provider. If you refuse care from their chosen physician, you could be refused workers comp benefits. That leaves you paying out of pocket for your medical care and without the disability pay you may need. Because of this, you may need to accept that care and discuss your position with an Indianapolis workers comp lawyer.
Getting a Second Opinion
Of course, that doesn’t always mean you’ll like the doctor your employer picks. They’re under your employer’s pay, too, which may affect how you see the doctor. Because of this, you may want a second opinion from a different doctor.
Refusing to be examined by your employer’s chosen doctor can lead to losing your benefits. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. For example, you may need a second opinion when you’re declared at maximum medical improvement. That means your health has gotten as well as possible, and often, it means you’re cleared to return to work.
But you may believe the doctor is incorrect or may be acting on your employer’s instructions. Luckily, you have an opportunity to seek an independent medical examination. That means you’ll have the power to choose your doctor and dispute the other doctor’s word. If they’re avoiding a settlement offer that meets your needs, this information can help you get your maximum benefits.
Connect with a Work Accident Lawyer About Your Medical Care Options
Getting compensated fairly after a work accident is tough. Even the doctor may not be completely on your side. That makes it hard to get the benefits you need to recover. Luckily, the Indianapolis lawyers at Kooi Law understand, and they’re ready to help.
If you want to choose your own doctor after a work accident, or if you’re worried about trusting your employer’s choice for a doctor, you can work with a work accident lawyer on your Indiana claim. To get started with a free consultation, reach out by calling 317-569-1335 or by filling out the online contact form below.
