Finding a healthcare provider you trust can be challenging, as can understanding payment structures and insurance policies. You might also know what it is like to have your healthcare choices restricted to an approved list of providers because of an employer-managed care system. In Ohio, employees seeking workers’ compensation for a job-related injury can find themselves restricted even further.
Can I Use My Doctor for Workers’ Comp?
Finding a physician you like can feel reassuring, and you want to keep seeing them for all your medical issues. However, you might not be able to go to your doctor if you are hurt on the job. The Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation (BWC) maintains a list of certified medical professionals whose reports they rely on to make decisions about workers’ comp claims. If your physician does not have BWC certification, the BWC cannot accept their recommendations.
The number of medical providers refusing to accept workers’ compensation claims is increasing because of the significant amount of BWC paperwork involved. This can leave you, the injured worker, with the following options:
- Stick with the BWC-certified physician your employer chooses
- Pick a certified physician from the BWC list
- Ask a qualified workers’ compensation attorney for a recommendation
Can I Change Doctors?
The law allows you to choose your physician after a work-related injury, even if your company doctor initially treated you. Even if your employer highly recommends their physician, you are allowed to find another BWC-certified provider. You can go to the BWC’s website to search for certified doctors.
If you decide to change providers, make sure that you file the necessary forms promptly. One form you will need is a Notice to Change Physician of Record (C-23). Remember that you do not have to go through this process alone. An experienced lawyer can ensure you complete all the paperwork and go through the required steps.
Does it really matter which doctor or medical center you go to? For many people, it matters a great deal. Unfortunately, patients who find themselves going to doctors prioritizing a company’s economic interests might not get the care they need. That is because such physicians might minimize the impact of the injury or recommend inadequate follow-up treatment if they do recommend any at all.
Too many agencies, companies, and healthcare providers feel pressure to reduce costs. However, the need to save money is no excuse for denying injured workers the medical care they are entitled to. Experienced workers’ compensation lawyers do everything possible to make sure this happens. If you are experiencing difficulty with choosing your own BWC-certified physician, you are perfectly justified in seeking legal representation.