When a worker is injured on the job or contracts an occupational illness in Ohio, their exclusive legal remedy is filing a workers’ compensation claim. Of course, the most important thing is that the employee receives medical care as soon as possible, followed by providing notice of the injury to their employer and starting the workers’ compensation application process.
Many people develop a relationship with a particular physician – a good idea for continuity of care and an opportunity for the doctor to develop familiarity with the patient’s medical history and potential problems. But, when a work-related injury occurs or an occupational disease develops, can you see your own doctor on workers’ comp in Ohio?
In this article, Cincinnati workers’ compensation attorney Mark L. Newman discusses Ohio laws regarding medical treatment following a workplace injury. To learn more or to discuss your case with Mr. Newman directly, call (513) 533-2009 or reach out online today to request a consultation.
Can I Use My Own Doctor After a Workplace Injury?
After a work-related injury, you may use your own physician for ongoing treatment as long as your doctor is an Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) certified provider. If your employer asks you to see a certain physician, workers’ compensation law does not require you to do so, but you may see the company doctor if you prefer as long as they are a BWC-certified provider.
The exception is that for emergency room treatment or the first visit for a work-related injury medical appointment, injured workers may use a provider that is not BWC-certified. After that, the employee should use a BWC-certified doctor – otherwise, the medical bills cannot be paid through the workers’ compensation program and the worker will be personally responsible for them.
Can Workers’ Comp Force You to See Their Doctor?
No, workers’ comp cannot force injured workers to see a specific doctor, but in order to receive paid benefits from the program, they are required to visit a certified workers’ compensation doctor. This means that while you do not have to visit the doctor recommended by your employer, you must choose your treating physician from the approved network.
Can I Change My Workers’ Comp Doctor?
In Ohio, you do have the option to change doctors for your workers’ comp claim, but certain rules must be followed. If you feel that a different doctor would better address your medical needs than the one who initially treated you, you must file the required documents with the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC).
Of course, in order to change physicians, the new doctor must be BWC-certified. Once approved, your new treating physician will assume responsibility for your care.
It’s important to follow this process carefully to meet your obligation under Ohio workers’ compensation laws and avoid any issues with your claim.
Second Opinion for Work Injury
Following a work-related injury or illness, you do have the right to seek a second opinion if you are unsatisfied with the care provided by your first doctor after initial treatment.
If you wish to switch doctors to continue treatment, you must choose a new physician from the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) certified provider list and file a Notice to Change Physician of Record, or C-23 form (see here). This allows you to seek additional medical opinions and ensure your treatment plan aligns with your recovery needs.
How To Find a BWC-Certified Medical Provider
An injured Ohio employee can access a list of BWC-certified medical providers by:
- Contacting the BWC by phone at 1-800-644-6292;
- Through their employer’s managed care organization (MCO); or
- Using the BWC online provider look-up program, which allows searching by name, location, provider type, specialty or foreign language spoken.
Need Help With Your Ohio Workers’ Compensation Claim? Call Cincinnati Attorney Mark L. Newman Today
If you have any questions about your right to be treated by a physician of your choice, it’s important to speak with an attorney who specializes in Ohio workers’ compensation law. Navigating the rules surrounding workers’ compensation benefits and claims can be complicated, especially when the circumstances surrounding treatment restrictions or disability benefits get murky.
A knowledgeable lawyer like Mark L. Newman can answer any questions you may have, help protect your rights, ensure you receive the care you need, and help you secure the benefits you deserve. Don’t let unanswered questions jeopardize your workers’ comp claim—talk to an experienced workers’ comp attorney today to better understand your options and build a strong case for your recovery.
See Our Blog: What Not To Say To a Workers’ Compensation Doctor
