How to Handle a Work-Related Injury
Employees must follow other rules when recuperating from an injury suffered at work.
Some work-related injuries seem minor enough not to require consultation and treatment. But that’s not the correct approach to benefit from workers’ comp and the healthcare plan provided by employers.
Employees must follow other rules when recuperating from an injury suffered at work.
Know when to seek treatment
Even minor injuries, especially work-related ones, demand immediate consultation. It’s best to seek professional care after any injury caused by toxic exposure, fatigue, accidents, or work duties.
Early treatment makes it easier to identify the root cause and the proper course of treatment. It can be chiropractic sessions, medication, surgery, therapy, rest, etc.
Likewise, seeking treatment immediately after an injury sustained at work reduces the risk of employers or insurance companies dismissing the condition. “Toughing it out” is a flawed approach that can lead to less insurance compensation, more chronic pain, and other issues.
Know where to go
Many employees don’t know where to go to seek medical attention. Usually, the nearest emergency room is the best option. But for non-emergencies, it’s best to follow the general medical care guidelines set by the state or the employer.
Sometimes, people must go to a specific doctor or clinic to benefit from workers’ comp. In other instances, employees may choose a preferred medical professional to consult and treat them for work-related injuries.
The latter is a best-case scenario, especially when dealing with injuries that require chiropractic treatment.
Know how to choose a doctor
Employees required to visit an employer- or insurance company-appointed doctor have few workarounds. But anyone not bound by these constraints can choose any doctor to treat them.
Ideally, people should look for experienced doctors without ties to any particular insurance company. In addition, the doctor must be willing to give a written statement or testimony about the employee’s condition, treatment expenses, and severity of the injury sustained at work.
Furthermore, convincing the insurance company and employer about the necessary treatment is essential. Checking the physician’s credentials and experience in certain areas is mandatory.
Talking to the doctor
It’s best to communicate honestly and describe symptoms accurately. But on the other hand, being dishonest can lead to a wrong diagnosis, aggravated symptoms, and no workers’ comp.
Additionally, employees must go into detail about how an accident happened or how symptoms occurred. Even minor symptoms can indicate something severe and change a diagnosis.
Discuss a lien basis treatment plan
Sometimes getting claims approved can take time. Employees should discuss lien basis compensation for treatment to get the procedures and medication they need as quickly as possible.
Get additional assistance when necessary
Legal assistance can be a good idea if a situation seems too confusing. Speaking with a workers’ comp legal specialist can be life-changing. It is the difference between getting the proper chiropractic or therapeutic care and medication plan or feeling worse as time goes on.
Liberated Rehabilitation is a mobile physical therapy service in the Phoenix metro area specializing in fully personalized in-home physical therapy. We provide tailored physical therapy in the home or work setting for faster, better recovery. Call (602)755-2276 to schedule an appointment.
