Workers’ compensation is a system that provides benefits to employees injured on the job. Workers’ comp laws are in place to protect both workers and employers in case of workplace injuries.
Before seeking treatment for a job injury, it is important to understand whether you can choose a doctor on your own.
Medical treatment
If you are injured at work, your employer is responsible for providing you with medical care. In most cases, your employer will choose the doctor you see for your initial medical treatment.
However, if you are not satisfied with the doctor chosen by your employer, you have the right to request a change of doctor for ongoing treatment. You must make this request in writing to your employer’s workers’ comp insurance carrier. Under certain other circumstances, the New Jersey Division of Workers’ Compensation may also permit changes.
Seeking second opinions
Even if you are satisfied with the initial treatment provided by your employer’s chosen doctor, you have the right to seek second opinions from other healthcare providers. However, your employer’s insurance carrier must approve this request.
Before meeting with a new doctor, you must obtain authorization from your employer or their insurance carrier. Without proper authorization, you may be responsible for paying for medical treatment out of pocket.
To ensure you do not lose access to your workers’ compensation benefits, it is important to be aware of your rights when it comes to medical attention. Enlisting the help of an experienced professional may be a smart option to help you navigate this tricky area.