If you’re injured in a workplace accident, it’s important to understand Iowa’s workers’ compensation rules and procedures for choosing your treating doctor. Otherwise, you may run into unnecessary complications or even jeopardize your benefits.
Seeking medical care from an unauthorized medical provider can lead to denied bills, which could leave you paying out of pocket for care you assumed would be covered. It could also drag out your claim processing. Here’s what you need to know.
The law in Iowa
Unless it’s an emergency, your employer or their insurance carrier has the right to direct your initial medical treatment after a workplace injury. As such, you’ll typically be referred to a network of approved health care providers to choose from. Getting treatment from an approved provider helps ensure that your treatment is covered and your claim stays on track.
What if you’re not satisfied with your provider?
If the care you’re receiving feels inadequate, you do have options. Start by communicating to your employer or insurance adjuster in writing, explaining why your current treatment isn’t meeting your needs and requesting a different doctor or specialist.
Should your concerns go unaddressed, you can file a petition for alternate care with the Iowa Workers’ Compensation Commissioner. This formal process allows the Commissioner to review your situation and, if necessary, approve treatment with a different provider outside the usual network. Approval isn’t automatic, so it’s important to provide through documentation showing why your current care isn’t sufficient.
Safeguard your rights and benefits
Reaching out for early experienced legal guidance when navigating a workers’ compensation claim is crucial to addressing such complexities of the claims process and avoiding costly mistakes. It can go a long way in protecting the benefits you’re entitled to and ensuring that you receive proper medical care.
