What role does mental health play in recovery under workers’ compensation?

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You’re not alone. Our Michigan workers’ comp lawyers have been called the best in the state, and we pride ourselves on providing you with care, trust, and responsiveness.

A new approach to treatment under workers’ compensation and how employers can save money by “doing the right thing.”

Business Insurance has published a fascinating article about psychosocial factors and how they impact recovery under workers’ compensation. Evidence shows that some difficult claims have more to do with mental health than the injury itself. Employers are now choosing to voluntarily provide cognitive behavioral therapy and/or “health coaches” to address this problem.

Our attorneys see this first-hand with our own clients. Stress related to financial pressure and the inability to seek prompt medical care can be overwhelming. Family members make the situation worse with their own judgments and poor legal advice. Anxiety and depression bubble to the surface creating real barriers to a successful recovery.

We are big advocates for the mantra that “doing the right thing” is often most effective. Here are three ways employers can help employees and save money at the same time.

1. Have good communication about the process

We get several calls each week from individuals who do not understand what is happening with their claims. Employers keep them in the dark about paying wage loss and/or medical treatment. This creates an atmosphere of stress, worry, and mistrust.

2. Set expectations about returning to work

Our clients just want to be treated fairly and get back to work. Honor restrictions so that a person has a chance to recover without loss of income. Pay wage loss benefits if no work is available. Do not make up a fake job for the sole purpose of demeaning or harassing the employee. Treating someone with respect and dignity goes a long way.

3. Provide prompt medical care

Access to medical care is the most important benefit under workers’ compensation. Michigan law requires payment if it is reasonable and necessary. Employers are given sole authority to select providers during the first 28 days. This control should be used sparingly and only for the benefit of the employee. Do not ignore injuries or refuse medical treatment as this will only prolong disability.

Michigan Workers Comp Lawyers never charges a fee to evaluate a potential case. Our law firm has represented injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 35 years. Call (844) 316-8033 for a free consultation today.

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Author Bio Jeffrey Kaufman

Author
Jeffrey E. Kaufman
Michigan Workers Comp Attorney

Jeffrey E. Kaufman has extensive experience in workers compensation cases and has recovered millions of dollars in benefits for his clients. He believes all injured workers deserve to be on equal footing with insurance companies and employers, and fights tenaciously so their rights are secured and protected.


“Jeff also helped me with getting my Blue Cross bills paid. I would absolutely recommend him and the whole firm. Jeff and the firm did everything they were supposed to do for me and my case.”
Ricardo Perfetto

Hundreds of 5-Star Reviews

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Get Help From our Michigan Workers’ Comp Lawyers Today

You’re not alone. Our Michigan workers’ comp lawyers have been called the best in the state, and our clients love how they’re treated with care, respect, and responsiveness. We will give you the time you need, we will explain your legal rights, and we will always treat you with respect.

Our workers’ compensation and Social Security disability lawyers always put your needs first. Get to know your legal team.

Our attorneys post regularly about common issues related to workers’ comp, including common injuries, settlement calculations, laws, and more.

Injured? It’s Time to Get Some Answers

Don’t let the insurance adjuster push you around. Request your free consultation today.

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Our attorneys post regularly about common issues related to workers’ comp, including common injuries, settlement calculations, laws, and more.

Our workers’ compensation and Social Security disability lawyers always put your needs first. Get to know your legal team.