Can I Choose My Own Workers’ Compensation Doctor?

The amount you receive is not decreased because of personal carelessness or increased because of employer issues.

There are notable exceptions to this capability. If your circumstances meet these exceptions, then your choice of doctor may be limited.

#1. Your injury is a medical emergency.

What qualifies as an emergency can sometimes be difficult to define. Everyone has different medical needs. The bottom line is this: if you feel like you need to go to the emergency room, then go.

#2. Your employer is a PPO or ADR participant.

You will know if your employer is a participant. The State of New York requires participating employers to notify all employees, in writing, of the details that pertain to the program and what they should do if they suffer a work-related injury.

#3. You have specific tests or medicine that is required.

Some work-related injuries may qualify as a non-emergency, requiring specific treatment options to promote wellness. In this situation, the insurance carrier may require you to obtain your tests from a diagnostic network or a designated pharmacy.

Our clinic is a diagnostic and treatment center.

Some employers may have the ability to require injured employees to obtain tests or medicine from designated providers because of authorized contracts they have negotiated.

The guidelines in this area should be provided by your employer. In many instances, they are visibly displayed in a high-traffic area at your workplace. These requirements should also be available through your human resources representatives.

The amount you receive is not decreased because of personal carelessness or increased because of employer issues.

Once the agreement is approved, no ongoing or future benefits are paid. Any future visits or treatments become the responsibility of the individual.

What to Do if You Suspect Employer Discrimination

If you believe your employer may have discriminated against you because of a claim, you have up to two years to file Form DC-120. Send the completed for to the Workers’ Compensation Board.

Workers are also protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

Most employees who suffer a work-related injury are permitted to choose their own authorized doctor to treat their condition. Workers are also protected from discrimination while pursuing a workers’ compensation claim.

If you’ve been hurt at work, then follow the necessary procedures and then schedule your appointment right away. That way, you will have access to all your potential rights and benefits.