Michigan workers comp attorney talks about options when medical bills in collections.
Employers and insurance companies routinely deny claims and force medical bills in collections. Many of the calls we receive involve no missed time and only small amounts of medical.
It is almost impossible to find a workers comp lawyer who will handle these types of claims. There is simply not enough at stake to justify the time and expense. Here are some options to help you resolve medical bills in collections.
Health insurance
Medical bills in collections can usually be submitted through your own health insurance. Even if it is through the same employer who denied your workers comp claim in the first place. You might have deductibles or co-pays but this is the best option to guarantee payment. Don’t wait too long because most health insurance companies have time limits. You might have to pay the health insurance company back if you are later successful with a workers comp case.
Telephone mediation
You can request informal mediation with the Michigan Workers Compensation Agency (WCA). This is done by telephone and your employer will be asked to participate. Sometimes a state mediator can convince your employer or its insurance carrier to make payment. We recommend you contact an attorney before taking this step. You can reach the WCA at (888) 396-5041.
Negotiation
Medical treatment under workers comp is subject to cost containment rules. This is a built in reduction that employers and insurance companies automatically receive. You can ask that your medical bills be recalculated using this discount. Most collection companies are happy to get payment at this lower amount. Make sure that you get confirmation of a negotiated amount in writing.
To speak with one of our workers comp attorneys in Michigan, call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation. We never charge a fee unless you are successful with your case.
– 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 comp benefits and never charges a fee to evaluate a case.
Related information:
Workers comp pays medical for workplace injuries in Michigan
– Photo courtesy of Creative Commons, by *_Abhi_*.