If you have been injured at work, it is essential that you receive proper medical care. In California, you have the right to choose your own workers’ compensation doctor. However, there are some rules you must follow when changing doctors.
When can I change doctors?
In general, you can change doctors at any time as long as the change is reasonable. This means you must have a valid reason for wanting to change doctors, such as:
- You are not satisfied with the care you are receiving.
- You don’t trust your current doctor.
- Your current doctor is not available to see you.
How can I change doctors?
You must submit a doctor change request to your employer or the California Department of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) to change doctors. The request must include the following information:
- Your name and address.
- The name and address of your employer.
- The name and address of your current doctor.
- The name and address of the doctor you want to switch to.
- An explanation of why you want to change doctors.
What happens if the DWC does not approve my application?
The DWC has the right to approve or deny your request to change your doctor. If the DWC denies your application, you can appeal the decision.
What should I do if my employer or the DWC won’t let me change doctors?
If your employer or the DWC won’t let you change doctors, you can talk to a workers’ compensation attorney. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and defend them.
In conclusion, you have the right to change doctors if you are injured at work. However, there are some rules you must follow for the change to be approved. If you are having trouble changing doctors, contact a workers’ compensation attorney.
To help you change doctors, here are some tips:
- Choose a doctor who is certified by the California Department of Health.
- Ask for referrals from other injured workers who have had a good experience with the doctor you want to switch to.
- Make an appointment with the doctor you want to switch to before submitting your doctor change request.
- Contact a lawyer
If you have any questions or concerns about your right to change doctors, please get in touch with the team at Julie O Legal. We can defend your rights.