After a workplace injury, dealing with doctors and medical examinations can significantly impact your workers’ compensation claim. Insurance companies often prioritize their interests over yours, making it essential to have proper legal representation to protect your rights.
Don’t let insurance companies undervalue your workplace injury claim. The experienced Pennsylvania work comp attorneys at Munley Law have been fighting for injured workers’ rights since 1959. Call us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you receive the full compensation and medical care you deserve.
Understanding Insurance Company Doctors and IMEs
When you file a workers’ compensation claim, the insurance company will require you to undergo an Independent Medical Exam (IME). While these doctors are presented as neutral third parties who assess your injuries, they are selected and paid by the insurance company.
These company-approved physicians may not prioritize your recovery or fairly evaluate your condition. Instead, they could be looking for reasons to minimize or deny your claim, as insurance companies aim to reduce compensation payments.
Before agreeing to an insurance company’s requested medical exam, consult with a workers’ compensation attorney. Agreeing without legal counsel may compromise your rights and privacy. The doctor performing the examination works for the insurance company and their assessment often prioritizes cost-saving measures over your long-term care needs. An attorney will help you prepare for the examination and ensure your interests are protected throughout the process.
Pennsylvania’s 90-Day Rule for Workers’ Comp Medical Treatment
Under Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation law, your employer must provide a list of approved healthcare providers for your first 90 days of treatment after a workplace accident. This list must include at least six options, and employers cannot direct you to any specific provider. After this initial period, you gain the freedom to choose your own doctor for continued care.
Many injured workers ask whether they can see their personal doctor immediately after a work-related injury. For the first 90 days, you must select from your employer’s approved provider list. However, if your employer fails to provide this list, you may see your own doctor—but verify this is permissible to avoid claim complications. Your attorney can help determine when you’re legally allowed to transition to your preferred healthcare provider to ensure your claim remains valid.
The timing of workers’ compensation benefits is another critical concern. With proper claim handling, benefits typically begin within three weeks of filing. However, insurance companies frequently deny or delay claims, leading to months of appeals and financial hardship. An experienced attorney can significantly expedite this process and improve your chances of receiving timely compensation.
What To Do During Your Workers’ Comp Medical Examination
Before attending an IME, consult with a qualified workers’ compensation attorney who can prepare you for the examination. When meeting with the insurance company’s doctor:
- Be completely honest about your condition. Experienced physicians can detect inconsistencies or exaggerations, which could damage your claim’s credibility.
- Maintain professional communication about your employer. Focus on the facts of your injury rather than expressing negative opinions about your workplace.
- Describe your symptoms accurately without embellishment. Precisely report your pain levels and limitations without overstatement.
- Review your medical history beforehand. Be prepared to discuss previous injuries or conditions accurately to prevent the doctor from attributing your current injury to pre-existing conditions.
- Keep detailed notes after the examination. Document what tests were performed, questions asked, and how long the examination lasted, as this information may be valuable if you need to challenge the doctor’s findings.
How Our Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Help Injured Workers
A skilled workers’ compensation lawyer will:
- Guide you through the complex medical evaluation process
- Ensure your rights are protected during insurance company examinations
- Help you understand when you can transition to your preferred doctor
- Fight for appropriate compensation for your injuries
- Handle appeals if your claim faces denial
- Challenge biased medical reports from insurance company doctors
- Calculate the full value of your claim, including future medical expenses
- Negotiate with insurance adjusters to maximize your settlement
For over 65 years, Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys has been at the forefront of workers’ compensation litigation in Pennsylvania. Our distinguished legal team brings several competitive advantages to your workplace injury case:
- Award-Winning Representation: Our attorneys have been consistently recognized by Best Lawyers in America, Super Lawyers, and the National Trial Lawyers Top 100.
- Board-Certified Specialists: Several of our attorneys are certified specialists in workers’ compensation law, demonstrating exceptional expertise in this complex field.
- Multi-Million Dollar Results: We have secured numerous multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for injured workers throughout Pennsylvania.
- True Trial Experience: Unlike firms that settle quickly, our workers’ compensation lawyers are experienced trial attorneys prepared to take your case to court when necessary.
- Personalized Attention: You’ll work directly with a senior attorney—not a paralegal or case manager—ensuring your case receives the expert attention it deserves.
- No Recovery, No Fee Promise: We work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we successfully recover compensation for you.
Get Help With Your Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Claim Today
If you’re dealing with a workplace injury in Pennsylvania, don’t face the system alone. Contact a workplace injury attorney who understands the complexities of Pennsylvania workers’ compensation law.
Remember, Pennsylvania workers’ compensation claims have strict deadlines. Don’t delay—speak with an experienced job injury lawyer today to protect your right to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits.
Call our Pennsylvania workers’ comp lawyers for a free case evaluation. Our team is available 24/7 to discuss your legal options after a workplace accident.
