Can an Injured Worker Select His or Her Own Provider?
In the state of Kansas, as in all states, when a worker suffers any type of injury in the course of his or her duties, benefits may be available through a workers’ compensation claim. In addition to periodic payments to replace lost income, Kansas workers’ compensation benefits also pay for or reimburse the cost of “reasonable and necessary” medical expenses, from doctors’ visits to procedures, prescriptions, rehabilitation or physical therapy, and any required medical devices. But medicine is not an exact science. Different doctors may prescribe different types of care for the same injury. Who gets to decide, in a Kansas work comp claim, what expenses are reasonable and necessary?
The Right to Determine Who Will Provide Care in a Kansas Workers’ Compensation Case
Though many states allow the injured party to select his or her own physician, provided that person is on an approved lists of providers, Kansas gives the employer or the work comp insurance provider the right to make that decision. An injured worker may opt for treatment from a medical professional of his or her choice, but will have to pay for those services.
The Right Healthcare Provider Can Make a Difference for Your Company
You have the right to choose the treating physician…take advantage of it. The right medical professional will have a comprehensive understanding of the workers’ compensation process, will know what forms need to be filed, and will have a strong sense of what care is “reasonable and necessary” and what care is non-essential. A knowledgeable doctor will carefully assess an injured worker, and will know when the worker may return for light duty or to fully resume duties. The right physician will seek to ensure that the worker receives the care that he or she needs, but will know how to minimize the financial impact to you and your company.
Contact Core Medical Center Today
At Core Medical Center, with offices in Blue Springs, Missouri, we understand the needs and concerns of employers facing workers’ compensation claims. We have a thorough understanding of the healthcare benefits available through a Kansas work comp claim and have effectively protected the interests of employers in these matters. Contact us online or call our offices at (819) 229-1941 to schedule an appointment.
