Can I Choose My Own Work Comp Doctor?

Injuries at work can create havoc in someone’s life. Not only can it impact one’s ability to work for a period, but it can also create financial strain. Doctor visits and other medical appointments are often required and that can cause additional hardships. Depending on the severity of your injury, it can have long-term impacts on your health, require modifications to your home and affect your ability to work in the future. 

In Missouri, any employer with more than 5 employees is required to carry worker’s compensation insurance. This provides for the necessary medical care and attention that an employee may need following a workplace injury. However, there are steps and rules that must be followed during the worker’s compensation claim process. 

Unfortunately, you are not allowed to choose your own doctor if your employer carries worker’s compensation insurance. Their insurance company usually has a list of providers that they work with and will send you to see someone on that list. Many private providers do not see worker’s compensation patients, so that limits the options further. 

A common and fair concern for employees is that, because the doctor works with the employer’s insurance company, they will favor their findings to benefit the employer. Many people who have seen a worker’s compensation doctor will tell you that the provider will enter the appointment with an air of distrust. You can expect them to ask you questions about your injury and ask you to retell your story multiple times to see if details change. They could use those comments against you to imply that you are lying, regardless of whether you are or not. While that is not always the case, employees should be aware of this possibility to ensure that their injuries are not unfairly discounted. If you believe the doctor you were sent to does not agree with your injuries or their severity, you are allowed to request a second opinion. Without an attorney, the costs incurred with that will usually be yours to bear, but an attorney can help you request appropriate second opinions. 

Navigating the worker’s compensation process can be stressful and overwhelming. If you believe that you have been treated unfairly or have been offered an unfair settlement, contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC today. He has practiced worker’s compensation law for over 10 years and understands how the process works. With his knowledge and experience, he will aggressively fight to increase the value of your claim and ensure your rights are protected. 

Call our office today to set up a consultation today.