Can I Choose My Own Doctor For A Work Injury?

If you have been injured at work, it is essential to have people on your side looking out for your best interests. This is true of your choice of attorney as well as your choice of doctor as you make a recovery from your work-related injury.

In the aftermath of a work injury, it is common for injured workers to receive misleading information about their rights. This often comes from employers and their workers’ compensation insurance companies. You have likely been told that you have to see a doctor that your boss or the insurance company approves of. This is simply not true. At The Law Offices of Miller & Bicklein, P.C., in San Antonio, we help injured workers get the benefits they need. If you are having trouble getting the care you need after a work injury, contact us.

Why Workers’ Comp Insurance Companies Prefer Their Doctors

If you are navigating a workers’ compensation claim in Texas, you may have experienced an insurance company pushing you to see their doctors rather than a doctor who knows you. The company might have told you it’s to get an independent verification of your injuries from a neutral party. But that isn’t true. This practice often stems from a desire to control costs. Insurance companies use a method known as prior authorization to limit spending. This means doctors must get approval before proceeding with certain medications or treatments.

This tactic complicates your care. It forces your doctor to guess which treatments the insurance will approve. Often, the process is unclear and unpredictable. You end up visiting a doctor who isn’t familiar with your medical history. This can lead to inaccurate assessments of your condition. The doctor might not fully understand the nuances of your pain or the progression of your injuries.

Moreover, insurance-driven decisions can delay necessary treatments, worsening your health condition. The focus shifts from getting you the best care to navigating bureaucratic hurdles. Remember, these delays can lead to further harm. Addressing your medical needs promptly and effectively, without unnecessary interruptions, is crucial.

How To Choose A Doctor

Choosing the right doctor after a workplace injury is crucial for your health and compensation claim. Here are the steps to take to select the right medical professional for your needs:

• Start with your primary care physician (PCP): Your PCP knows your medical history best. They can provide an initial assessment and guide you in your next steps.
• Seek a referral if necessary: Should your injuries require more focused care, ask your PCP to refer you to an appropriate doctor within your insurance network.
• Check your insurance details. Understand your policy requirements. Know whether your insurance requires visits to additional doctors.
• Consult with an attorney: Discussing your situation with an attorney can help clarify the legal aspects of your medical care and claims process.
• Follow insurance and legal advice: If your insurance requires a second opinion or if your attorney advises it, see the doctor recommended to ensure compliance and thorough care.

After selecting a doctor, keep track of all your appointments, treatments and any recommendations you make. This documentation will be necessary for your recovery and any claims you make. Remember, the right medical professional not only aids in your physical recovery but also plays a significant role in the success of your compensation claim. Choose wisely and stay informed every step of the way.

What Are Your Rights?

Regardless of what your employer or the insurance company may have told you, there is no requirement for you to stay in the health care network of their choice. Unless the Texas Workers’ Compensation Commission says otherwise, you have the right to choose your own doctor. Your medical treatment is a vital part of your healing process after a work injury, and you deserve to have a doctor you trust to help you through your recovery.

At The Law Offices of Miller & Bicklein, P.C., our attorneys will make sure you understand all of your rights and responsibilities and handle the interactions with the insurance company so you can focus on getting back on your feet.

You Have Your Choice Of Attorney And Your Choice Of Doctor

Just as you can trust your doctor to look out for your health, you can trust our lawyers to stick up for your rights. Contact us today at 866-609-3852 for a no-risk consultation to learn more. We serve Texas communities such as San Antonio, Odessa, Lubbock and Abilene.