Many workers who get hurt on the job want to return to work as quickly as possible. Often, they require basic accommodations from employers and treatment from a medical professional to recover and return to work safely.
In a workplace injury scenario, employees usually report an incident to their supervisors as soon as possible. They may have to leave to seek medical care. After a doctor diagnoses their injuries, they can then develop a treatment plan. The physician overseeing the care provided as part of a workers’ compensation claim may recommend a specific treatment regimen, as well as limits on the job functions the worker performs.
Treatment options for work injuries can range from over-the-counter medication to surgery. Sometimes, the worker pursuing benefits may disagree with the treatment plan proposed by the physician. What rights do workers have when they disagree with the recommended care during a workers’ compensation claim?
Workers may need a second opinion
Every doctor has their own personal biases that can affect how they approach specific patients. Sometimes, what they recommend may seem unreasonable or unrealistic to the injured worker. Other times, the treatment may seem too aggressive or even unnecessary.
A second opinion from another licensed medical professional could help a worker explore their options. In some cases, workers’ compensation may pay for a meeting with a different physician. Coverage is available when a worker questions a doctor’s recommendation for surgery. If the treatment plan does not include an operation, then workers’ compensation may not cover a second opinion.
Seeking a second opinion can still be worthwhile. A patient with a different treatment plan proposed by an outside physician can potentially discuss alternate options with the doctor overseeing their care. Workers need to communicate with medical professionals effectively and follow treatment plans carefully to ensure that they maintain their right to medical coverage and disability benefits.
Discussing concerns about proposed medical treatment plans can help those with workplace injuries get the benefits and support they require. Employees who seek legal guidance during complex workers’ compensation claims may have a better chance of protecting their benefits than those who choose to handle the matter alone.