When you get hurt at work, you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. The program provides free medical care for work-related injuries and a partial wage if you cannot work while recovering.
However, there are program rules surrounding access to medical treatment after a workplace injury in Springfield. Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys could work to ensure you get your full benefits. Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley, P.C. is the largest workers’ compensation firm in Western Massachusetts, and we have the knowledge and experience to handle any issue that might arise.
When you suffer a workplace injury, you must see a doctor if you want to pursue a workers’ compensation claim. Your employer will have a list of nearby healthcare professionals who are approved to see workers’ compensation patients. You must get the initial evaluation from a professional on your employer’s list.
The law in many states requires you to get all treatment from an employer-approved provider. The policy in this state is more liberal. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 152 § 30 allows you to see the physician of your choice for ongoing treatment of a work-related injury.
You can use your primary care physician if they accept workers’ compensation insurance and if they are qualified to treat your specific injury. If not, or if you want to explore other options, our Springfield attorneys can suggest physicians, including specialists, who are experienced with workers’ compensation and can provide quality care and the substantial documentation necessary in these cases.
If you have an injury that requires ongoing care and prevents you from working, your choice of physician can have a big impact on your workers’ compensation claim. You will be working closely with the doctor, so you must feel that they listen to you and take your reports of pain or other symptoms seriously.
If you see a doctor of your choice, but after the appointment feel that they are not a good fit, you can try another provider. However, you must get approval from the workers’ compensation insurer.
Speak with our attorneys in Springfield if you have concerns about the first doctor you chose to treat your workplace injury. Sometimes we can address your misgivings directly with the provider. When necessary, we can help you request approval for a change in provider from your employer’s workers’ compensation insurer.
There are situations when you have no choice about the physician who examines you. Sometimes, the workers’ compensation insurer requests a second opinion on your medical condition and/or your treatment plan after a workplace injury in Springfield. The insurer selects the examining physician in these cases.
The insurer may seek an Independent Medical Examination (IME) to assess whether you are able to return to work or confirm the extent of a permanent disability. The insurer may require a utilization review to evaluate whether your treatment plan is effective and appropriate.
The providers who conduct these evaluations work for the insurance companies and may be biased. Our attorneys can prepare you for the medical examination and appeal the findings if necessary.
The free medical care you receive under the workers’ compensation program is a valuable benefit, but it comes with some strings attached. Our lawyers can help you navigate the system and take full advantage of the choices you have. Reach out to us today if you have questions about medical treatment after a workplace injury in Springfield.
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