What if I Don’t Like My Workers Compensation Doctor?

You generally do not get to choose your doctor after a work injury. However, there may be valid reasons to request a different doctor.

It’s essential to see a doctor after a workplace injury. A doctor should provide the necessary medical treatment, refer you to specialists, evaluate whether you have a permanent disability, and set your work restrictions, if applicable. Additionally, seeking medical care after a workplace injury benefits your claim for workers’ compensation.

However, what happens if you dislike your workers’ compensation doctor?

“Can I Choose My Doctor After a Work-Related Injury?”

Under Missouri law, your employer generally has the right to choose your workers’ compensation doctor. Unfortunately, this makes it difficult for you to choose your desired treating doctor, and you may be stuck with a doctor you don’t trust or feel comfortable with.

However, if you are not satisfied with the level of care you are receiving, you are allowed to petition the division of workers’ compensation for an order to change your doctor.

Some of the valid reasons to request another doctor from your employer include:

Poor Communication

Your workers’ compensation doctor should frequently engage you to determine the progress of your injuries and recovery. However, this may not be the case. For example, your workers’ comp doctor may constantly fail to respond to your concerns, in which case you can request another doctor.

Conflicting Personalities

It’s important to have a good relationship with your treating doctor. Therefore, if you feel uncomfortable with your current treating doctor, you may request another doctor.

Lack of Competence

Your treating doctor is required to follow up and analyze your situation and treat you effectively and professionally.

Lack of Trust

Sometimes, employees find that their care from a workers’ compensation doctor is below what they expected. So, if you are concerned that your doctor doesn’t have your best interest in mind, you may request a change.

“How Can I File a Complaint Against My Workers’ Compensation Doctor?”

If you believe that your complaints against your workers’ comp doctor are valid, inform your employer’s insurance company to investigate the complaints and determine the validity of your case. Make sure your complaint is in writing.

If your complaints involve the doctor’s competence, you may consider filing a disciplinary complaint with the organization that governs the doctor’s license in Missouri.

Before making any decisions, we recommend speaking to an experienced Kansas City workers’ compensation attorney to guide you through this process and protect your rights.

Missouri Workers Compensation Attorneys

Generally, a work injury can put you under a lot of stress and inconvenience. The situation can be even worse if you end up stuck with a doctor you are uncomfortable with. Speak with an experienced workers comp attorney at the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann to ensure your rights are protected and you get the medical care you deserve.