WHAT DOCTOR SHOULD I SEE
IF I’M HURT AT WORK?
When you suffer a workplace illness or injury in Washington State, workers’ compensation benefits should protect you from financial harm. If your employer is among the majority using the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) for workers’ comp, you’ll often need a doctor approved by L&I.
LET’S LOOK AT EACH STEP IN THE PROCESS:
1
YOU JUST GOT HURT. L&I-APPROVED DOCTOR? NOT REQUIRED Don’t worry about picking doctors when you need urgent care. Just get the help, to safeguard your health. Even if your initial doctor isn’t L&I approved, he or she can help you start your workers’ comp claim.
2
YOU RETURN FOR FOLLOW-UP CARE. L&I-APPROVED DOCTOR? - YES When you return to the doctor as part of your rehabilitation, now you need a doctor in the L&I network — so your medical expenses will be covered. Many doctors are included.
3
ONGOING TREATMENT. L&I-APPROVED DOCTOR? - YES As you continue your recovery, L&I requires you to see an “attending provider” to coordinate your care. If you want to change attending providers, L&I must approve.
4
YOU NEED TO SEE A SPECIALIST. L&I-APPROVED DOCTOR? - YES If you need to see additional doctors besides your attending provider, you can. Those doctors also must be approved by L&I.
5
YOU NEED AN “INDEPENDENT” EXAMINATION. L&I-APPROVED DOCTOR? - YES L&I can ask you to get an examination from someone other than your usual doctor. State law requires L&I to provide exam locations close to you.
The lawyers at BOTHWELL & HAMILL have helped many people like you navigate the workers’ comp system in Washington State — AND GET THE MAXIMUM BENEFITS YOU’RE OWED. CONTACT US TODAY!
1-509-248-0941