Michigan workers comp lawyer explains how employers and insurance companies play games with your medical care even when they are paying benefits voluntarily.
We have a new client who is voluntarily receiving workers comp benefits. This means that the insurance company has not disputed his work injury and believes that he is disabled from work. I guess you can say that he is one of the lucky ones.
This individual had been treating with a doctor selected by the insurance company. It was decided that nothing more can be done and the doctor refuses to provide any further medical care.
Our client is still in pain and has decided to get a second opinion. The insurance company has denied this request and will not authorize any additional medical care except with their doctor.
This is a clear violation of the workers comp law and a case has been filed. Ironically, wage loss benefits continue to be paid. If the insurance company ever wants to stop paying benefits, they should provide appropriate medical care so that our client can recover and go back to work.
You have the right to choose your own doctor after 10 days
Medical care is one of the most important benefits under workers comp. Michigan law requires that your employer or its insurance company provide reasonable and necessary medical treatment for all work-related injuries.
You have the right to select your own doctor after 10 days. This is important because you will need a doctor on your side if your workers comp benefits are ever disputed.
The best way to find your own doctor is by asking relatives and friends. Sometimes your family doctors will be able to make a referral. You must tell the insurance company of the doctor you select and provide the address.
Hold the insurance company accountable for paying workers comp
A large percentage of injured workers simply put up with whatever the insurance company will pay. They suffer without proper medical care and have their wage loss benefits cut off.
It is up to you to challenge your employer or the insurance company and make them live up to their obligations under workers comp.
You do not have to fight alone! Call (855) 221-2667 to speak with one of our experienced workers comp lawyers.
– Alex Berman is the founder of Michigan Workers Comp Lawyers. Hes been representing injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 35 years. Alex has helped countless people obtain workers compensation benefits and never charges a fee to evaluate a case.
Related information:
Injured at work? Advice from a Michigan workers comp lawyer
Injured On The Job: A Guide to Michigan Workers Comp Law
Photo courtesy of Creative Commons, by ernstl.
