Medical Treatment And Worker's Compensation Benefits

Your medical benefits form a significant part of your worker's compensation benefits. It is important to understand the medical benefits and the issues surrounding them. That way, you can strengthen your claim and maximize your benefits. Below are four things you should know about your medical treatment and associated benefits.

1. Payments Begin Immediately

You are entitled to different worker's compensation benefits after a work-related injury. The benefits payments may begin at different times. For example, worker's compensation insurance companies usually pay the medical benefits (payment for medical bills) as soon as they receive your claim. You do not have to wait until the insurer accepts your claim to get the benefits.

2. Regulations Vary By State

State governments control and legislate worker's compensation laws and regulations, so expect variations between states. For example, some states allow you to choose your doctor from the beginning. In other states, you must get treatment from your employer's designated doctor or network. State law even defines the procedures for changing physicians.

Follow the applicable state laws to ensure a smooth claim process. For example, if you are from one state and working in another, your work state's laws and regulations apply.

3. The Medical Care Affects Your Benefits

Your medical treatment affects the rest of your worker's compensation benefits. Your doctor will produce a report that your employer and worker's compensation insurance will rely on for the claim and return-to-work process. For example, the treatment and report determines:

• Whether the injury you want compensated connects to your workplace accident
• The seriousness of your injuries
• Whether and when you can resume work
• Whether your injuries are permanent or temporary

Thus, you should cooperate with your treating physician. Inform them you have a work-related injury and intend to file a worker's compensation claim. Follow the doctor's advice, for example, on dietary restrictions and consultations with medical specialists. Otherwise, worker's compensation might accuse you of delaying your recovery.

4. You Can Dispute the Medical Report

Although your doctor's report is crucial to your claim, you don't have to accept the report if you disagree. You have the right to an alternative examination and report. For example, you should seek an alternative assessment if your doctor clears you for work but you are still in great pain. Another example is if you need major surgery, but your doctor thinks otherwise.

Hopefully, you will recover from your injuries fast and get the full compensation you deserve without delay. For more information, contact a worker's compensation lawyer near you.