Workers’ Comp Q&A: Do I Have To See My Employer’s Doctor?

If you were hurt on the job in South Carolina, you need to get medical attention right away. The first step is to tell your employer what happened. Then, your employer will tell you what doctor you should visit for treatment.

While you might not like the idea of being told what doctor to see, it’s not typically the conspiracy theory it might seem like it could be.

Why you have to go to your employer’s doctor.

The South Carolina Workers’ Compensation system is an insurance program that most of the state’s employers are required to pay into. Like many insurance plans, there is sometimes a limited network of doctors covered under your employer’s Workers’ Comp coverage.

So, if the insurance is going to foot the whole bill, you have to go to the doctor your employer specifies. Sometimes, you may just have to go to a specific medical facility rather than a particular doctor.

What if you don’t like the doctor?

If you don’t agree with your employer’s doctor’s diagnosis of your workplace injuries, you may be able to seek a second opinion. If you decide to do this, you should first contact a South Carolina Workers’ Compensation attorney. Discuss the best way to go about getting another opinion, and whether you medical bills might be covered with your doctor of choice.

Don’t skip the employer’s doctor.

No matter how upsetting it might be to lose your choice in physicians – especially at a time when you feel particularly vulnerable – don’t ignore the mandate to see your employer’s doctor. If you simply go to your own physician, South Carolina Workers’ Comp might not be required to reimburse you, and you might lose valuable time in the very time-sensitive Workers’ Compensation system.

If you have questions about the Workers’ Compensation process, and how to make sure you’re being treated fairly and getting all of the compensation and benefits you need and deserve, contact the experienced legal team at George Sink, P.A. Injury Lawyers for a free case evaluation today.

Call or text (888) 612-7001 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form