Can I See My Own Doctor for a Work Injury?

If you’ve been injured while on the job in New Jersey, you may be tempted to visit your own doctor for treatment. However, it’s crucial to understand the potential consequences of failing to follow proper workers’ compensation procedures. Please continue reading to learn about your rights and how our determined ​Hudson County Workers’ Compensation Lawyers can help you navigate these difficult times. 

Can You Choose Your Own Doctor After a Work Injury? 

Following a work injury, you might assume you have the freedom to choose your own doctor. However, this is generally not the case. In most cases, your employer or their insurer provider retains the right to designate the treating medical professional. The medical care you receive must be authorized to be eligible for coverage. 

Consulting your personal doctor without prior approval could result in uncompensated medical expenses. Authorization from your employer or their insurance provider is essential as it ensures that medical care is relevant to the work-related injury, and helps determine work restrictions and the recovery process. 

What Happens If I Go to My Doctor Without Permission? 

If you fail to adhere to authorized treatment guidelines, it can result in significant consequences. Seeking medical treatment outside the authorized network can result in your medical bills not being covered, and your employer or their insurer might deny reimbursement. Additionally, unauthorized care may not be accounted for in your claim, potentially leaving you responsible for hefty out-of-pocket costs. 

Nevertheless, in limited circumstances, you may be allowed to see your own doctor or seek care outside of the authorized network. The two primary situations where immediate authorization for medical care may not be required:

• Emergency Situations: Immediate medical care is permitted for stabilization. However, any necessary follow-up care for the injury requires authorization from your employer or insurer. 
• Employer Delay or Refusal: If your employer has unreasonably delayed or refused to provide necessary medical care, you might be able to obtain care on your own. In these situations, legal steps may be required to compel your employer ot uphold your right to treatment. 

Can You Request a Different Doctor Or Get a Second Opinion? 

If you’re unsatisfied with the medical care provided by the authorized doctor, you have options. To switch authorized doctors without jeopardizing your case, you must seek approval from your employer or insurer. This request requires valid grounds, such as dissatisfaction with the quality of care or a lack of reasonable improvement. Engaging a qualified attorney is advisable to navigate this complex process. 

In a workers’ compensation case, you may be able to seek a second opinion. However, this typically requires permission from the employer or their insurer and may be coordinated through their established network. A second opinion can help confirm an initial diagnosis or validate a proposed treatment plan. 

At Lerner, Piermont, Riverol & Lawlor, P.A., we are prepared to help protect your benefits and ensure you receive the proper care. Connect with our legal team today to schedule a consultation.