Tips for Dealing With Doctors During Your Workers Comp Case

By Chris Gerspacher | Leave a Comment

If you have suffered an injury on the job, it’s crucial that you seek proper medical care in a reasonable amount of time. Depending on your employer’s policies, you will likely be directed to go to a certain clinic or provider’s office, just like you might be required to have a medical examination by an approved physician during legal proceedings for workers compensation. Regardless of your exact circumstances, and whether or not you pursue legal assistance, dealing with doctors is something you should expect after any workplace injury.

Unfortunately, when you are given limited choices of medical professionals, it can be hard to know where you stand. Some doctors may not give you the kind of care you deserve, while other doctors may offer care from a place of bias. The important thing to know is, when undergoing medical treatment for your injuries, you have the right to your own workers compensation attorney in Southern California.

If you’ve recently been hurt on the jobsite, here are a few tips for handling the medical aspects of your case:

1. Don’t wait to seek care

Even if your injuries are not life-threatening or considered to be “emergencies,” it’s important that you not put off seeking medical care. The longer you wait to see a doctor, the worse chances you’ll have at winning your case. Even if you are directed to see a physician you don’t know, or maybe don’t want to see, don’t drag your heels. Seek medical treatment promptly.

2. Follow the instructions

Too often, people see the doctor for a workplace injury, but fail to follow any of their instructions for things like: medication, physical therapy, rehabilitation, injury stabilization, and more. Failing to comply with medical advice can jeopardize your case, so make sure you pay attention and ask questions of your doctor and/or nurse if you need clarification.

3. Bring a friend

In some cases, you may be allowed to bring a companion with you, to your medical appointments. Take advantage of this whenever possible! Your friend, partner, child, or other important figure can be there to take notes, be a witness, and offer help to you with things like driving, walking, eating, etc…

If you want to get the compensation that you deserve in your worker’s compensation case, medical care is going to be a large part of your responsibilities. Most people don’t enjoy going to the doctor, but it’s important that you do so. Need an experienced and hard-hitting Southern California workers comp attorney to fight for you? Contact us at Jackson & Jackson today and request your free consultation.