Can an Injured Worker Select His Own Provider?
In Missouri, as in every state, when an employee suffers a work-related injury, he or she has the right to file a workers’ compensation claim, which not only provides the worker with benefits to cover lost wages, but also typically pays for all “reasonable and necessary” medical care resulting from the injuries. That can include not only treatment, but any prescriptions or medical devices. As a general rule, there are no deductibles that must be paid by the worker. The important question—who determines what type of care is reasonable and necessary?
The Protections Provided to Employers in Missouri
In most states, the employee will have the right to choose his or her doctor, though the provider must typically be on a list of approved medical professionals. That is not the case in Missouri. In Missouri, the employer and/or the workers’ compensation insurance provider have the right to determine who will provide any required care and what that care will be. The worker may choose his or her own provider, but will have to pay the costs.
The Importance of Working with the Right Medical Provider
In a Missouri workers’ compensation claim, it’s generally the treating physician who determines exactly what type of care will be provided. An experienced doctor will understand what is “reasonable and necessary” and what is non-essential and can help ensure that you don’t incur expense for unnecessary procedures. A knowledgeable medical professional will also know what types of forms will be required and can often handle the preparation and submission of those documents.
Contact Core Medical Center Today
At Core Medical Center, we have considerable experience working with employers throughout Missouri to effectively manage healthcare and healthcare costs when a worker has been hurt on the job. We are committed to helping you effectively manage the costs of injury in the workplace. To learn more, contact Core Medical Center online or call our offices in Blue Springs, Missouri, at (819) 229-1941.
