Suffering an injury on the job is a serious matter. It is natural to worry about what comes next, especially if you are out of work for an extended period of time. For many people in this situation, the cost of medical care is of primary concern. Fortunately, workers’ compensation benefits could cover your treatment expenses.
If you have questions about medical treatment after a workplace injury in Bensalem, contact The Law Office of Kaitlin Files, LLC. Our compassionate workers’ compensation attorneys could help you determine your rights and secure the benefits you deserve.
Under the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act, employers can require workers to seek medical care from one of six designated physicians following a workplace accident. However, failure to follow the exact requirements outlined in the law allows workers to seek treatment from a doctor of their choosing. These requirements include posting a list of six recommended physicians visible to employees before an accident happens, and securing employee signatures on a Rights and Responsibilities document confirming the rules regarding medical treatment at the time of hire and after a workplace injury.
Keep in mind that these restrictions only apply in the first 90 days immediately following a workplace accident. Even if your employer follows all of the necessary guidelines, you have the right to choose your own physician after the 90-day window has expired. Our Bensalem attorneys could help you determine the best path for seeking medical care following a workplace injury.
An Independent Medical Examination (IME) is a medical evaluation requested by your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance company after you have filed a claim for a work-related injury. The purpose of an IME is to determine whether your injuries are work-related and evaluate your ability to return to your job. The doctor who performs the IME is not your treating physician and is instead selected by your employer’s insurance company. This doctor will review your medical history, examine your injuries, and issue a report that can significantly influence the outcome of your claim.
If the IME report contradicts your treating doctor’s opinion, the insurer may deny or limit your benefits. It is important to attend your IME, as failing to do so could jeopardize your case. Because the exam may be used to dispute the seriousness or cause of your injuries, be cautious and prepared to advocate for your rights. During an initial consultation, our attorneys could answer your questions on how an IME might impact your medical care following a Bensalem workplace injury.
Recovering from a workplace injury is stressful enough without having to worry about who will cover your medical bills. If you have questions about your medical treatment after a workplace injury in Bensalem, reach out to The Law Office of Kaitlin Files, LLC to schedule a consultation with our team. We look forward to hearing from you.
Reviews