Understanding workers’ compensation can be stressful enough without thinking about seeing a new doctor. But that is precisely what could happen if you sustain an injury on the job.
Most employers choose their own doctors for workers’ comp claims. Per the Pennsylvania Code, employers have a right to select a list of designated health care providers. You may have no choice but to see a doctor chosen by your employer. The experienced lawyers at Lieberman, Tamulonis & Hobbs often help clients understand what workers’ compensation means for their future medical care.
You are seeing a doctor who is reporting directly to your employer through the insurance company handling your claim. Because of this, there are certain activities you may want to avoid.
- Speculating about your accident—Stay true to the basic facts when you are reporting your injury. Too much detail or guesswork that does not line up with what you have previously said to others may make you appear less reliable or credible.
- Missing appointments—Missing appointments could negatively affect your claim. Even if you have a legitimate reason, it could reflect poorly on the report sent to the insurer. It could suggest that you are not that interested in recovery, or that the severity of the injuries is not as bad as you say.
- Avoiding the truth about pain and limitations—While you may be the strong, silent type, tell your doctor about what you are experiencing. If you hold back, it may reflect negatively on your claim.
Visit our webpage on workers’ compensation claims to learn more about workers’ compensation and what it means for you.