Michigan lawyer explains physical therapy workers’ comp claims and how to make sure medical bills get paid.
We have represented employees with all kinds of physical problems from their jobs. A workplace accident can result in anything from a muscle strain to amputation of a body part. Medical treatment options range from over-the-counter pain medication to complex surgery with months of rehabilitation afterwards. Unfortunately, insurance companies have a bad habit of stopping medical treatment prematurely. Here is some information about Michigan physical therapy workers’ comp claims and how to make sure medical bills get paid.
About work-related injury medical benefits
Medical benefits for a work-related injury are a safety net for employees hurt on-the-job. It guarantees treatment regardless of employee fault. Employees are covered immediately and there is no waiting period. It does not matter how the accident occurred provided it arose in the course and scope of employment. All reasonable and necessary medical should be paid without copayments or deductibles owed.
Employees have the right to choose their own providers after 28 days from the start of medical care. This right extends to choosing hospitals, surgical centers, medical facilities, and physical therapists. Michigan has a fee schedule, so the amount paid to providers should be the same. We recommend finding the best provider and forcing the insurance company pay.
Many of our Michigan clients benefit greatly from physical therapy workers’ comp claims. They experience less pain, restored function, and greater mobility. We have seen clients ween off pain medication and avoid surgery. Physical therapists can also educate our clients on how to avoid future problems and work more safely.
How to find a physical therapist
Talking with a trusted family doctor is a great way to figure out who is good in a particular field. Ask for a referral to a physical therapist. Family members who had similar medical conditions are also a good resource. The Internet is a powerful tool that can be used to find reviews and locate the best physical therapist in the area.
Choosing your own therapist is easy under workers’ comp. All that is required is giving notice of your intention to treat and providing contact information. It might also be necessary to send updated physical therapy records after each visit to continue getting medical bills paid.
What if my physical therapy workers’ comp claims are disputed?
Michigan employees who find their physical therapy workers’ comp claims disputed can file an Application for Mediation or Hearing. This will start a formal legal process where a magistrate decides if additional medical treatment should be paid. Penalties could be available.
Employees can seek penalties if medical bills are not paid within 30 days of becoming due. Penalties are limited to a maximum of $50 or the bill itself, whichever is less. Penalties are only available if there is not a dispute. Insurance companies hate paying penalties, and this will often get their attention. Unpaid medical bills should be sent to the insurance company by certified mail.
Injured on the job in Michigan and have questions questions about your physical therapy workers’ comp claim? Call our attorneys now for a free consultation!
If you were injured on the job in Michigan and you have questions about your physical therapy workers’ comp claim, call now (855) 221-2667 or fill out our contact form for a free consultation with an experienced workers’ comp lawyer. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. We’re here for you.
For more than 40 years, our lawyers have been helping people like you who have suffered from on the job injuries in Michigan. We understand the physical, emotional, and psychological hardships you are experiencing from your accident. We also have the skill, experience, and know-how to protect you and get you the best possible payout amount for your case.
To see what our own clients have to say about the caring, compassion, and communication they received from us, you can read in their own words about their experience here on our testimonials page from clients we have helped.
Remember, every claim is different and must be negotiated on its own merits. Do not accept any payout amount without fully understanding your legal rights.
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 40 years. Call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation today.
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