After a workplace injury, your employer or their insurer might strongly suggest or even direct you to a specific doctor or clinic. You might be wondering if you really have to go where they tell you.
In Maryland, the power to choose your treating physician generally rests with you as the injured worker. Choosing a doctor you trust can be an important step to your physical and financial recovery.
Importance of medical choice
Maryland law allows you to select your own healthcare provider for workers’ compensation benefits without paying out of pocket. Seeing a doctor you know and trust can be better than a company doctor who may send you back to work too soon to cut insurance costs.
Your treating physician is central to your workers’ compensation claim because their medical records and reports can serve as supporting evidence. A doctor who also understands your job will likely take your symptoms seriously while recommending treatment promotes a full recovery.
Role of independent medical examinations (IME)
While you can choose your doctor, your employer’s insurance provider has the right to request an IME. The insurer will hire a different doctor to provide a second opinion.
During the IMEs, the doctor will review your medical history, perform a physical exam and assess your mobility and well-being. Missing these tests can jeopardize your benefits, even if the findings do not automatically override your primary doctor’s orders.
While this process is meant to be unbiased, there are times when an insurance company may limit or deny payments due to a false IME report. Seeking legal guidance can help you dispute these findings.
Taking control of your recovery
Choosing a doctor who has your best interests at heart is key to pursuing the compensation you need to get effective medical treatment. You deserve to receive unbiased care for your workplace injury and a more personalized path to healing.
