When you’re injured at work, you’ll need to seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Your health is vital, and so you’ll need to fight back when it’s compromised. However, most of us have a preferred doctor. Whether they’re a doctor we’ve been with for years or someone who understands our health best, we want to see our own doctors.
However, you’ll need to ask, “Can I choose my own work comp doctor in South Carolina?” Before you start, ask your lawyer from HawkLaw, PA. You’ll need to know what to expect before you sign up for your appointment, so get the answers you need before you begin.
Your Medical Benefits Rights
South Carolina workers should receive certain benefits once their workers comp claims have been filed and approved. One of your most important benefits will be your medical benefits, which should cover the costs of your healthcare.
When you’re injured, your medical care benefits should cover all reasonable expenses that may be necessary for your recovery. For example, if you broke your arm at work, your workers comp benefits should cover the initial care; surgery for your broken bone, if necessary; and any other treatment needed to get you back to full health.
Typically, though, your employer has specific plans for how that compensation is used. Speak to your employer about who you’ll need to see.
Seeing Your Own Doctor in SC
Unfortunately, your options for seeing your own doctor might be limited. While some states have provisions to let workers see their own doctors, South Carolina requires workers to see only certain doctors after their work accident.
Your employer may pre-approve certain doctors, who may focus mainly on workers comp cases. Otherwise, they may approve a certain hospital or group, so you’ll need to choose from one or more doctors that your employer chose.
So, what if you want to see your own doctor? While you’re able to choose to see whatever doctor you’d like to see, your medical benefits won’t cover these injuries. Instead, you’ll be expected to go through your insurance company or pay out of pocket.
Without a workers comp attorney, those are your only options. Unfortunately, you might need to see your own doctor. You might have unique health conditions that will be affected by your on-the-job injury, or you might not be comfortable with the chosen doctor. If the insurer won’t agree to let you choose, your lawyer may need to step in.
Know the Medical Rights for South Carolina Workers
Getting the appropriate care for your South Carolina work accident is vital, but that’s not always so easy. You’ll need help recovering from your injuries, but you might have one question about your medical benefits: “Can I choose my own work comp doctor in South Carolina?”
Unfortunately, it’s not so simple. Recovering from your condition requires the best doctor for your claim. If your employer won’t help, a lawyer from HawkLaw, PA can help you fight back and get the care and the recovery you deserve.
For more information, seek assistance with your claim. We can be reached by calling 1-888-HAWK-LAW (429-5529) or by completing the online form below.
