Can You Choose Your Own Doctor When Filing A Maryland Workers’ Compensation Claim?

If you have been injured in a workplace accident, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. But what happens if your employer’s insurance company is trying to dictate which doctor you should see?

You need to understand state law surrounding the employee’s right to choose their own doctor when filing a workers’ compensation claim in Maryland. Our attorneys at Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP can explain your rights when it comes to seeking workers’ comp benefits following a workplace accident. Reach out to our office to receive a free consultation.

Can You Choose Your Own Doctor in Maryland?

In Maryland, unlike many other states, injured workers are allowed to choose their own doctor when filing a workers’ compensation claim. For this reason, your employer or their insurance company cannot dictate which doctor you should see, regardless of whether or not you will be filing a workers’ compensation claim.

The Benefits of Choosing Your Own Doctor

When you choose your own doctor, you can benefit from a relationship with the medical provider that is based on trust and understanding of your situation. You will also be able to receive more personalized service, as opposed to being referred by an insurance company or employer and feeling like just another number.

Additionally, when you choose your own doctor, you can rest assured that all of the relevant medical information about your injury will be sent back to the insurance company – it is less likely that critical information will be left out. This ensures that all relevant evidence is taken into consideration when determining whether or not you should receive benefits.

How Does It Work?

In order for injured workers in Maryland to choose their own doctor for a workers’ compensation claim, they may have to get authorization from their employer’s insurance carrier and if a dispute arises, they may need to petition to the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC) to override the insurance carrier’s denial.

After getting approval from the WCC or their employer’s insurance carrier, an employee proceed to start treatment at the direction if their physician and submit any relevant medical information to the insurance carrier for ongoing approval.

 When Do You Need an Attorney?

The sooner the better. Often times disputes result from the treatment being recommended by the doctor. Insurance carriers may even have you see one of their experts to attempt to dictate your treatment. It is beneficial to seek legal representation from qualified attorneys who specialize in dealing with these types of cases. A qualified attorney can help ensure that all necessary documents are properly completed and submitted in order for an injured worker’s request to be approved by the carrier and if a denial ensues – fight for your treatment before the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission.

An experienced lawyer may also be able to negotiate with employers and/or insurers on behalf of an injured worker so that they can get fair compensation for any losses suffered due to their workplace injury or illness.

Get Experienced Legal Guidance Today

If you want to learn more about your rights and obligations when filing a workers’ compensation claim in Maryland, contact our attorneys at Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP. We can help you protect your right to choose your own doctor and help you resolve any disputes that may arise during your workers’ compensation case. Call 800-248-3352 to set up a free consultation.

Source:

wcc.state.md.us/Gen_Info/WCC_FAQ.html