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Navigating doctor visits after a workers’ compensation claim

On Behalf of | Jul 30, 2024 | Workers' Compensation

When you suffer an injury at work in New Jersey, you might wonder how to receive medical care under workers’ compensation. It’s important to understand the process so you can proceed without delay.

Understanding the process

After reporting your workplace injury, your employer will likely guide you through filing a workers’ comp claim. In New Jersey, the process enforces injured workers’ protection by ensuring they receive medical attention without delay. 

You don’t need permission from your employer to seek initial medical help. However, the situation might be different for continuing treatment.

Does worker’s comp choose your doctor?

Your employer or insurance carrier generally has the right to select the doctor to treat your work-related injuries. This means you might have to see a doctor approved by your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance for follow-up care. This setup helps manage the costs and coordination of your treatment.

Can you choose your own doctor?

If you prefer to see your own doctor, you should notify your employer about this decision. 

You can change to a doctor of your choice later in the treatment process, but this typically requires an agreement from your employer’s insurance provider to ensure that all treatments are covered under your claim.

What if you need urgent care?

In emergencies, you can seek immediate care without prior approval, but your employer should be informed immediately after you receive emergency treatment to keep your claim valid.

Your workers’ comp should cover all necessary medical treatments for your injury. This includes visits to specialists, necessary surgeries, and rehabilitation. Understanding the guidelines and following the approved process is vital to ensure your treatments are covered. So you can focus on your recovery without worrying about the complexities of workers’ comp procedures.