Filing a workers’ compensation claim can be overwhelming, especially at the start of the process when you’re about to get medical help. The doctor who will treat you can have a significant impact on your recovery and the financial benefits you may receive.
Because the physician’s reports serve as the primary evidence in your workers’ comp case, it is crucial to understand who can choose your doctor. Knowing your rights early on helps you avoid confusion and ensures you can be an active participant in your own care.
Your employer usually designates a doctor
By default, your employer and their insurance company usually control your medical care at the start of a claim. This initial control allows them to direct you to a doctor within their network to evaluate your injury. While this is the standard procedure for many workplace accidents, California law provides specific paths for workers to gain more influence over their own medical treatment.
When can you choose your own doctor?
While the insurance company often makes the first choice, there are legal exceptions that allow you to pick a doctor you already know and trust. Here’s what you need to know:
- Predesignated personal physician: You can see your own doctor from day one if you “predesignated” them in writing before your injury occurred. To qualify, you must have group health insurance, and your doctor must have treated you in the past. Most importantly, they must have agreed to handle work-related injuries before the accident happened.
- Lack of a Medical Provider Network (MPN): If your employer’s insurance does not use a certified MPN, you have more flexibility. You must see the employer’s chosen doctor for the first 30 days, but after that, you may switch to a different provider who is willing to take workers’ comp patients.
Knowing how to use these exceptions ensures that you are not stuck with the insurance company’s choice of doctor for the entire duration of your claim. Exploring these options allows you to take an active role in deciding who manages your medical treatment.
Know your options after a workplace injury
Understanding the rules for medical care helps you stay in control of your health. Being proactive about your choice of physician ensures that your treatment aligns with your recovery goals.