You’re hurt at work and need medical care. But can you go to your family doctor? Or do you have to see whoever your boss tells you to see?
This is one of the most common questions injured workers ask, but the answer isn’t as simple as ‘yes or no’.
Florida has specific rules about which doctors you can see for workers’ compensation injuries, and understanding these rules can make a big difference in getting the care you need.
As a Florida work injury lawyer with over 30 years of experience with workers’ compensation cases, Adam Baron can help you understand your rights, help you get the treatment and benefits you deserve, and keep you from having to deal with the Florida work comp “system” all on your own. From Boca Raton to Coral Springs to Miami, the work injury law firm of Adam Baron can help.
If you were injured or became sick while working, we can help. Call Adam Baron at 954-247-HURT now for a Free, No-Obligation Case Review.
Your Employer Gets to Pick Your First Doctor
Here’s the reality that surprises many Florida workers: your employer or their insurance company gets to choose your first doctor. This doctor is called an “authorized treating physician” or ATP. You don’t get to pick who this is initially.
Your employer should have a list of doctors who are approved to treat work injuries.
These doctors have agreements with the workers’ compensation insurance company. When you get hurt, your employer will direct you to one of these approved doctors.
This might feel unfair, especially if you have a family doctor you trust. But there’s a reason for this system. The insurance company wants to make sure you see doctors who understand workers’ compensation cases and who will provide appropriate treatment without unnecessary delays.
You Do Have Some Rights About Medical Care
Even though your employer picks your first doctor, you’re not completely powerless. Florida law gives injured workers some important rights when it comes to medical treatment.
You have the right to emergency medical care wherever you can get it. If you’re seriously hurt, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911. Don’t worry about whether it’s an approved doctor. Emergency care is always covered, no matter where you receive it.
You also have the right to change your doctor; if you disagree with your authorized treating physician’s diagnosis or treatment plan, you may be able to see another doctor:
The One-Time Change Rule
Florida law gives you the right to request a one-time change of physician. This means you can ask to switch from the doctor your employer picked to a different authorized treating physician.
You can only do this once during your case, so choose wisely. The new doctor still has to be authorized by the insurance company, but you get some say in who treats you. Your workers’ compensation attorney may recommend certain doctors too.
To request this change, you need to ask in writing. Send your request to the workers’ compensation insurance company. They have to respond within five days and tell you which other authorized doctors are available.
When You Might Want to Change Doctors After a Work Comp Claim
There are several good reasons why you might want to use your one-time change option. Maybe the first doctor doesn’t seem to understand your injury or isn’t taking your pain seriously. Perhaps the office is too far from your home or work, making it hard to get to appointments.
Some workers find that their assigned doctor rushes through appointments or doesn’t explain treatment options clearly. Others feel like the doctor is more interested in getting them back to work quickly than in making sure they’re fully healed.
Trust your instincts. If you don’t feel comfortable with your assigned doctor or don’t think you’re getting appropriate care, it might be time to request a change.
What About Your Family Doctor?
Many workers wonder if they can see their regular family doctor for a work injury. Unfortunately, in most cases, the answer is no. Your family doctor can’t become your authorized treating physician unless your employer’s insurance company specifically approves them.
However, your family doctor can still play a role in your care. They might provide emergency treatment or help coordinate your care with the authorized treating physician. Just remember that workers’ compensation insurance won’t pay for treatment from unauthorized doctors except in emergency situations.
Getting Specialty Care
Sometimes your injury requires specialty care that your authorized treating physician can’t provide. For example, you might need to see an orthopedic surgeon for a broken bone or a neurologist for a head injury.
Your authorized treating physician can refer you to specialists, and workers’ compensation should cover this care. The specialist also needs to be authorized by the insurance company, but your ATP can help coordinate these referrals.
Don’t Let Medical Issues Derail Your Case
Choosing the right doctor is crucial for your workers’ compensation case. The doctor’s reports and opinions will play a major role in determining what benefits you receive and when you can return to work.
If you’re having problems with your authorized treating physician or you’re not getting the medical care you need, don’t suffer in silence. Talk to an experienced workers’ compensation attorney who can help you understand your options and make sure you’re getting appropriate treatment.
Remember, good medical care isn’t just about feeling better. It’s also about documenting your injuries properly so you can get the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve.
The Law Offices of Adam Baron, P.A. have represented hurt workers and accident victims for over 30 years. We understand how frustrating and challenging this time can be and we know how to help you through it. Our Florida work injury attorneys are aggressive when it comes to obtaining compensation and justice on behalf of our clients.
If you were injured or became sick while working, we can help. Call Adam Baron at 954-247-HURT now for a Free, No-Obligation Case Review.