Do I Have To Go To The Workers Compensation Doctor?
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Do I have to go to the workers compensation doctor?
If you were injured at work, and before you even contact Glendale workers compensation lawyers, you may be wondering if you can see your own doctor or if you are required to go to the doctor specified by the workers compensation insurance company. Perhaps the insurer, or your employer, has told you to make an appointment with that doctor rather than your own. You may have questions such as:
· Do I have a choice about which doctor to see?
· Can they force me to see their doctor instead of my own?
· Does it matter which doctor treats my work injury?
Unfortunately, the answers may not be appealing to you. However, there are occasional exceptions to the following information, which is why it’s important to consult Glendale workers compensation lawyers. At Hickey & Turim, S.C., we have helped protect the rights of many injured workers in our community. Because time may be of the essence in filing your workers compensation claim and getting medical treatment, we offer injured workers a free initial consultation. This can provide you with the information you need to make the decisions that are best for your short- and long-term health prognosis. If one of our Glendale workers compensation lawyers represents you, your best interests will be taken into account throughout the claims process.
The Roles that Doctors Play in Workers Compensation Cases
There is a multi-step process in helping you recover from your workplace injury.
Step One: A doctor must examine you to diagnose the extent of your injury and to give you possible treatment options to address that injury. The laws can vary from state to state, but you may be required to seek an Independent Medical Evaluation (IME) from a doctor who is approved by the workers compensation board or by your employer. It’s likely that your personal doctor will not be on the list of approved doctors. Workers compensation lawyers Glendale can provide from our firm may confirm whether or not your personal doctor is acceptable for your IME exam.
Step Two: A doctor may be required in order to treat your injury. You may have more choices for approved doctors who can treat your injury; however, there is likely to still be a list, or panel, of physicians from whom you can choose to seek treatment. The panel will be supplied by the workers compensation board or your employer.
What if I don’t go to an approved physician for the IME or for treatment?
Your workers compensation lawyers in Glendale should confirm this, but in most cases, you risk getting your injury claim denied if you do not go to approved physicians. If you have concerns about the prognosis that the IME or the treating physician gave you, you have the right to seek a second or even a third opinion from your own choice of doctors. However, you will have the responsibility of paying for their services (although this might be covered by your personal health insurance). If their opinion differs, you may have to pay for their medical care out of pocket and forgo workers compensation benefits.
Hickey & Turim, S.C.: Glendale Workers Compensation Lawyers You Can Trust
Call us today at (262) 797-6677 to make an appointment with one of the Glendale workers compensation lawyers from our firm to gain a better understanding of your legal options.
In my opinion, 5 stars isn’t enough for this firm!!
I was very apprehensive about contacting a lawyer for my workmen’s comp. claim. I’ve never had any good experience in the lawyer department. But thanks to Joshua Turim, I have new found gratitude! To say he went above and beyond for me is an understatement. Anytime I contacted him, he answered me lightning fast. Even though my claim wasn’t a huge amount, he still went out of his way to get me what I deserved. If anyone you know needs a great lawyer, Josh and his firm is the place to call!!
Tracy D.
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Josh made my workers' compensation claim move along with apparent ease and kept the atmosphere casual, yet composed.
He settled my case after many months of preparation and ultimate negotiation, keeping me informed along the way. He knew what I expected for an outcome, and explained every detail in laymen’s terms. Josh took all the time necessary to explain the process. I never felt like I didn’t understand. I recommend Josh to anyone looking to resolve a workers’ compensation claim without additional strain.
Denice L.
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I can’t speak highly enough for the work Joshua Turim and his Law firm did for me.
I found him from the Yellow Pages and after consulting with several other of his peers I hired Josh. The fit was right. He’s been my counsel for nearly 5 years now. My case was not an easy one. Workers’ Comp moves slow and methodical. Believe me, I’m thankful I had a professional who is very experienced and knowledgeable about the system on my side. We’ve reached a very good settlement and I know I can continue to count on Joshua Turim should any need arise.
Thanks Josh.
Terry B.
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