Can You Get A Second Opinion In Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Claims?
You trust doctors to provide the proper guidance when you suffer injuries or illness, but sometimes they get your diagnosis wrong. Getting another provider’s perspective can help to protect your health, but is it an option in a South Florida workers’ compensation claim?
If the doctor chosen by your employer’s insurance company downplays your symptoms, rushes you through visits, or pushes you to return to work too soon, you may be entitled to a second opinion. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer explains how it works and what to do if you’re not being taken seriously.
What Florida Law Says About Getting A Second Opinion in Workers’ Compensation Claims
Florida workers’ compensation benefits help cover the cost of medical care when on-the-job injuries happen. However, you generally need to see a doctor selected or approved by the insurer.
If you are unhappy with your case, the Florida Statutes provide for a one-time change of physician, but the insurer will select a replacement. You can also request an Independent Medical Examination (IME) by a doctor of your choosing, but you may have to pay for it yourself.
Situations in which you may want to get a second opinion in a Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation claim include:
- Your current provider fails to take your symptoms seriously.
- They fail to order diagnostic tests.
- The medications and treatments prescribed haven’t worked.
- You suspect they may have misdiagnosed your condition.
When there are problems with medical providers, getting a second opinion can protect your health and your rights in a Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation claim.
Steps to Take If You Want a Second Opinion After a Work Injury
Problems with medical providers can prevent you from getting the care you need and may jeopardize your rights to workers’ compensation in Fort Lauderdale. If you want a second opinion, take these steps:
- Request a doctor change in writing through the insurance adjuster.
- Be specific about issues like poor communication, rushed care, or lack of progress.
- Document all medical visits and symptoms, especially if they’re worsening.
- Track how your condition impacts daily life, including work restrictions.
If the insurer doesn’t respond within five days, you may be able to choose the replacement physician yourself. However, before taking any actions that could jeopardize your rights to benefits, contact our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer.
Request a Consultation Today To Speak With Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
If you are on workers’ compensation in South Florida and suspect your doctor has misdiagnosed your condition or is otherwise not taking it seriously, you may be entitled to get a second opinion.
At The Law Offices of David M. Benenfeld, P.A., we’ve spent more than 30 years helping injured workers fight to get the medical care and wage replacement benefits they deserve. So call or contact us online today and request a consultation with our experienced Florida workers’ compensation lawyer in our Fort Lauderdale, Sunrise, or West Palm Beach office.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0440/0440.html
myfloridacfo.com/division/wc