Like many other New Yorkers, you work hard to support yourself and your family members. Additionally, you provide value to your employer through your unique skills and talents. Even if you are careful at your workplace, though, you may eventually sustain a serious job-related injury. Fortunately, with some exceptions, New York law allows you to see the physician that you want.
If your employer’s workers’ compensation insurer is part of a preferred provider organization, your employer is likely to give you a list of treating doctors. Initially, you must pick the physician you see from this list. You should understand, however, that your employer must allow you to choose from at least two different hospitals and two specialty doctors.
Seeking treatment for your injury
The doctor-patient relationship is one of the more important ones in modern society. After all, you likely must discuss sensitive information with your physician and rely on him or her to treat you effectively. While you probably must see a doctor from your employer’s PPO list initially, you are not stuck with the physician forever.
Changing treating physicians
For a variety of reasons, you may be unhappy with your workers’ compensation PPO physician. For example, he or she may not listen to your concerns. Alternatively, you may feel that the doctor is not treating you effectively. If you want to change treating physicians, you can do so after 30 days. Before making an appointment with a new doctor, though, you must verify that the New York Workers’ Compensation Board has authorized the physician.
Undergoing a medical evaluation
Even though your doctor enjoys wide discretion in treating you as he or she sees fit, following certain guidelines is critical. Furthermore, your employer’s workers’ compensation PPO may require you to undergo a medical examination from a doctor it selects.
If you do not have a good working relationship with your treating physician, your health and recovery may be in jeopardy. Luckily, you are likely not stuck with the doctor that your employer’s workers’ compensation PPO wants you to see. By understanding when and how to change physicians, you can better advocate for your overall health.