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Iowa workers’ compensation | Your medical treatment rights

On Behalf of | Apr 30, 2018 | Workers' Compensation

Since the workers’ compensation system originated in America, workers across the nation have felt much more secure about on-the-job injuries. Knowing that a program exists to help them replace lost income and pay for medical care after an injury gives workers invaluable peace of mind.

Each state has its own set of rules mandating how workers’ compensation functions. Some states allow injured employees to choose their own medical provider and some states do not. In Iowa, employers have the right to choose the physician whom an injured worker will see. As you might expect, many residents do not feel comfortable about this rule.

As injury lawyers, we understand this but encourage workers to comply with the rule, at least initially. Doing so will reduce the chances of your claim undergoing a delay or a denial. However, if you are not satisfied with the quality of care your employer’s doctor provides, alternate options exist.

First, you should talk about your medical care concerns with your employer or with your workers’ compensation insurance carrier. If your concerns cannot be resolved in this manner, you may submit an application for alternate medical care to the workers’ compensation commissioner.

Further, if you disagree with the impairment rating assigned by the employer-provided doctor, you have the right to seek another opinion. This means you can undergo a second examination by a doctor of your choice, paid for by your employer.

These options exist because the government recognizes that your right to effective evaluation and treatment is critical in getting you back to work where you belong. We invite you to explore our firm’s website for additional information about your workers’ compensation rights in Iowa.