So you’ve recently sustained an on-the-job injury—what to do about a doctor? As an employee, your employer is responsible for identifying medical care providers available in the event of an accident.
According to the State Board of Workers’ Compensation in Georgia, your employer may fulfill this requirement in one of two ways:
- “Post a Traditional Panel of Physicians consisting of a minimum of six doctors. You may choose any one of the six. However, the Board may grant exceptions to the required size of the panel where it is demonstrated that six physicians or groups of physicians are not reasonably accessible. The panel must include one orthopedic physician and not more than two industrial clinics. Where possible, a minority physician must be included. You may make one change to another doctor on the list without the permission of your employer.”
- “Post the name of the Workers’ Compensation Managed Care Organization (WC/MCO) certified by the Board which your employer has contracted with to provide medical services. Your employer must give you a notice of the eligible medical service providers and post a 24-hour toll-free number for the managed care organization. A managed care representative will assist you in scheduling an appointment with the eligible medical provider of your choice. You may make one change to another eligible physician at any time, without the permission of your employer.”
Once you’ve received medical care, the question of payment comes into play. Good news: your workers’ compensation insurance carrier covers the cost of your treatment for a work-related injury. All authorized doctor bills, hospital bills, physical therapy, prescriptions, and necessary travel expenses are covered under workers’ compensation.
Don’t traverse the workers’ compensation process alone—contact Poirier Law Firm today. With over two decades of experience, our team of knowledgeable professionals can get you the care and compensation you deserve.
Source: https://sbwc.georgia.gov/frequently-asked-questions/workers-compensation-law-faqs