Unless your employer or the workers’ compensation insurer has entered into what is called a “Preferred Provider Agreement,” then you are entitled to seek medical attention from whatever health care provider that you believe to be appropriate. If a “Preferred Provider” exists, you may be required to have your first treatment at the “preferred” facility, after which you can change to the physician of your choice. Once you choose a doctor, you may need permission from the insurer or the Department of Industrial Accidents to change to another doctor specializing in the same field of medicine. In addition, all continuing medical treatment is now subject to “Utilization Review” under which the insurance company hires a private agency to decide whether tests, surgery, physical therapy, or other proposed care should be approved. If treatment is disapproved you may appeal to the Department of Industrial Accidents by filing a claim that asks a judge to approve the treatment.