Workers’ compensation benefits can be critical for those hurt on the job. They can also help pay for the costs generated by a work-acquired medical condition, such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
During a workers’ compensation claim, the injured employee sees a medical professional. That professional affirms that the condition relates to their employment and proposes a specific treatment plan. The worker can then receive medical care without needing to pay for it themselves. They may also be eligible for disability benefits that can replace their wages while they recover or undergo treatment.
In some cases, professionals question the treatment plans proposed by the doctor overseeing their claims. What happens when there are disagreements about the most effective or reasonable course of treatment?
A second opinion might be necessary
Typically, fault has minimal impact on eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits. Workers who get hurt because they made a mistake on the job are eligible for the same benefits as workers whose employers didn’t adhere to best practices regarding workplace safety.
However, sometimes workers could be at risk of losing their benefits or having their benefits reduced because they did not comply with the treatment plan. If it is clear that a worker’s continued symptoms or inability to work are the result of them refusing treatment, then that could influence what benefits they receive going forward.
It is therefore critical for workers to comply with the recommendations of the physicians overseeing their care. Employees may need to see a different doctor to validate their concerns about a treatment plan after a disagreement. Thankfully, workers’ compensation can help pay for a second opinion.
Particularly in cases where a worker may want to avoid surgery or other invasive forms of treatment, getting a second opinion could be beneficial for everyone involved. Another doctor’s opinion about the best course of treatment can be a more compelling argument when talking with the doctor overseeing the claim than the patient’s personal preference.
Trying to optimize benefits and achieve the fullest recovery possible can be challenging for those already dealing with work-related medical conditions. Having proper support and insight can be very useful for employees struggling with the challenges of a complex workers’ compensation claim involving a disagreement about the best course of treatment.