Why is doctor appointment attendance mandatory for workers comp?

After you become injured at work and file a claim with your employer a Workers Compensation case is opened. Depending on the laws in the state where you work, your employer has a certain amount of time to notify your state Workers Compensation Board that you have made a claim. 

If your injury requires immediate emergency treatment, seek care at an emergency room or urgent care center. However, after any immediate emergence treatment is over you need to find out how ongoing treatment should be handled.

The laws concerning ongoing medical treatment for workers compensation claims vary from state to state and can also vary by each employer's company policy. It is extremely important that you find out what the rules are that you have to follow, because failure to follow the rules can prevent you from receiving reimbursement at best or having your claim invalidated at worst.

Even in states that allow you to select your own doctor for ongoing treatment you will probably have to attend at least one appointment with an independent physician who is on a list provided by either your workers compensation insurance company or the workers compensation board in your state.

The reason for this appointment is to have an independent physician verify the nature and extent of your work related illness or injury. Depending on the nature of your injury and how long you will need to recuperate or rehabilitate, you may be required to visit this doctor more than one time.

If you have any concerns or questions about your workers compensation claim that you are uncomfortable asking your employer or if you are not satisfied with how your claim is being handled, you should contact an attorney who specializes in workers compensation claims. Some workers sustain injuries at work that can affect them for years, so it is crucial that your claim be handled properly and in a manner to protect your interests.