How To Pick The Right Doctor From The Start Of Your Worker’S Comp Claim
Choosing the right doctor at the start of your workers’ compensation claim can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. The doctor you select isn’t just responsible for treating your injury—they will play a critical role in documenting your condition and determining the extent of your injuries, which directly impacts the benefits you may receive. Selecting a physician with experience in handling workers’ comp cases is crucial to ensure that your injury is properly assessed, treated, and recorded in a way that supports your claim.
A doctor familiar with workers’ compensation laws and the unique challenges these cases present can make the process smoother and more efficient, helping to protect your rights and health. Our Atlanta and Savannah workers’ compensation injury attorney is here to help you choose the right doctor for your claim.
The Role of Your IME Doctor
Your workers’ compensation claim will likely include an independent medical exam, or IME for short. A claims examiner and the insurer will play a role in choosing your doctor. However, your attorney also has the potential to influence the decision, especially if the IME results are appealed.
A second IME can be performed with a more objective doctor, so be careful when choosing your workers’ compensation attorney.
Analyzing and Treating Your Injury
The doctor who analyzes and treats your injury should have experience assessing similar cases. It is the doctor’s report that shapes and drives the claim. The initial analysis sets the stage for treatment. Therefore, it is in your best interest to take the time to choose your doctor.
Choose wisely, and you’ll receive an honest assessment of your injury, appropriate treatment, and peace of mind. Above all, the doctor’s analysis of your injury helps pave a path toward a successful workers’ compensation claim.
Treatment for an Eventual Return to Work
Though your workers’ compensation benefits will help keep you afloat while away from work, they will likely be temporary. Those benefits eventually dissipate unless your injury is deemed permanent. Your doctor’s treatment partially determines your timeline for recovery.
A skilled and experienced doctor will implement the right treatment modalities to help expedite your recovery and return to work. Remember, it is in your interest to return to work, as your wage will likely be greater than payments provided through the workers’ compensation system.
Your Doctor Should Understand the Workers’ Compensation System
A physician without extensive experience with workers’ compensation has the potential to delay or ruin your case. The physician you select should be aware of the details of the workers’ compensation system, ranging from state-specific rules to timelines for paperwork.
If the medical information is not resolved in accordance with the rules of the workers’ compensation board, it will be delayed or even denied.
Above, all the physician you select should be certified by the workers’ compensation board. If the physician you have in mind does not have the appropriate certification, do not choose that doctor. When in doubt, reach out to the workers’ compensation board to determine if the physician you are considering is properly certified.
Learn More During a Consultation With Our Atlanta and Savannah Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
If you are injured at work, be proactive. Schedule a consultation with our Atlanta and Savannah workers’ compensation attorney to review your case. We’ll help you choose a doctor and expedite the road to recovery. Contact us today to learn more.
