If you have been injured on the job in Kentucky, one of the first things you should do is get a medical exam from a qualified doctor to confirm your injuries and provide a prognosis. The professional you choose for the exam can impact your workers’ compensation case.
Select your own workers’ compensation doctor
Your primary care doctor may not be the best medical professional to confirm your work-related injuries, but that doesn’t mean you have to go to one selected by your employer. You have the right to choose your own doctor. However, seeing a physician as soon as possible after an injury establishes the need for medical attention and emphasizes the necessity for workers’ compensation coverage. If you don’t visit a doctor quickly, the workers’ compensation insurance company may try to prove your injury was caused by something else and not by a workplace mishap.
The doctor who treats you submits medical records and information to your employer’s insurance company. Such data can affect your claim, compensation levels, workload, limitations and the like. In some instances, your employer may ask you to see a second doctor selected by the insurance company to confirm your injuries. Nevertheless, you should remain aware that doctors working for the insurance company will frequently not be on your side, necessitating an independent medical opinion.
Recovering sufficient benefits is essential
Getting the compensation you need after a workplace injury is essential, especially if your issues are severe and you can’t work for a long time or may even become permanently disabled. Filing claims is usually tricky, with many victims often having their claims initially denied. An initial denial doesn’t have to be the end of the road, as you can appeal.
The claims process for workers’ compensation is precise, and claimants need to ensure they have provided all necessary information. Sometimes, all that is required is additional paperwork. At other times, the workers’ comp insurance company will do everything in its power to offer a lowball settlement. Keeping thorough records of your issues can help you get a successful claim.
