How is your treating doctor determined if you’re hurt at work?

If you’ve recently been injured on the job, navigating your options for medical treatment can be confusing. You may not completely understand your rights when selecting a doctor.

Knowing something about California’s workers’ compensation laws can help you receive the best possible medical care after being injured at work. Let’s look at a few terms you may hear and should understand.

Predesignation

In California, if you are injured at work, you have the right to see your own doctor if, before the injury occurred, you notified your employer of the name of your personal physician or medical group. That’s known as “predesignation.”

The Medical Provider Network

In California, the Medical Provider Network (MPN) is a selected group that treats injured employees. If you don’t have a predesignated personal physician, you will need to go to someone on the MPN for medical treatment.

An MPN has a mix of physicians for both general and specialized treatment. If you aren’t satisfied after the first appointment, you can select another doctor within the MPN. You are also entitled to second and third opinions from other health care providers on the panel. After 30 days of treatment, you can see the physician of your choice within a reasonable geographic area.

Qualified medical evaluators

If you disagree with your diagnosis or treatment, you can request an independent review by a qualified medical evaluator (QME). This physician is certified by the California Division of Workers’ Comp to conduct a neutral medical evaluation when there are disputes.

Dealing with a work-related injury can be stressful. It is particularly aggravating when you don’t feel as if you are receiving the treatment you need. Working with someone who can help manage your claim and negotiate on your behalf will help provide peace of mind so you can focus on your recovery.