If you are receiving workers’ compensation benefits, your doctor will play a key role in whether you can continue to receive them or if there will be changes to your claim.
Since the state requires you to use doctors chosen by your employer or its insurer, you may not always be happy with who is taking care of your case. If you feel the provider is not giving you the best care or is ignoring you when it comes to how you feel, the California Department of Industrial Relations explains you have the right to challenge the opinion.
Disagreements happen
Disagreements in medical care are common. The practice is largely based on opinions derived from each provider’s experience and education. So, one doctor may think something different than another doctor. It happens all the time.
So, your disagreement with your doctor is not something bad or wrong. You have the right to get another opinion and to seek the care you need to make you feel better or to heal your body.
Moves to take
If you are having an issue with the reports from your doctor, you can go see another provider. You should consult with your employer the insurer to find out how to change doctors. You have the right to get opinions from up to two additional doctors. Keep in mind, there is a time limit of 60 days to do this.
If you are still unsatisfied, you can get an independent medical review from a doctor arranged through the state. If this doctor agrees with your opinions, then you will receive the right to go to a provider that is outside the ones chosen by your employer and its insurer.
You can stand up for yourself if you feel the doctor treating your workers’ compensation injury is not providing you the right level of care. Keep in mind, though, the other doctors you consult may agree with your original doctor.