Does Florida Workers’ Compensation Cover Pain Management In Fort Lauderdale Or Alternative Care?

On-the-job injuries in Fort Lauderdale can leave you suffering from chronic pain. Do Florida workers’ compensation benefits cover pain management or alternative treatments like chiropractic care or physical therapy?

The short answer is yes, but only when authorized by your employer’s insurer. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer understands how debilitating chronic pain can be and explains your rights to benefits and how to push for the care you need.

Payment for Pain Management in a Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Claim

During the opioid epidemic, the Florida Department of Health reports that unintentional overdoses claimed the lives of as many as 7,000 residents each year. Many medical providers now refuse to prescribe them and, in their place, recommend pain management.

Under Section 440.13 of the Florida Statutes, workers’ compensation pays for all “medically necessary” care related to your work injury. That includes pain management, but only if the insurance company approves the treatment in advance. Authorized pain management may include:

• Prescription medications, including muscle relaxers or non-narcotic pain relievers;
• Corticosteroid injections or nerve blocks;
• Physical therapy;
• Chiropractic care;
• Referral to a pain management specialist for long-term treatment.

The catch? You can’t choose your own doctor, and workers’ compensation may deny care they view as “unnecessary,” even if you’re still in pain.

Chronic Pain Due to Work-Related Injuries in Fort Lauderdale? How to Get the Pain Treatment You Need

Benefits available through the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) can cover pain management and alternative care for chronic pain sufferers. However, insurers often deny or dispute these payments. To get the pain treatment you need, take these steps:

• Keep records of your symptoms, including daily pain levels and activities you struggle with.
• Explain your pain clearly to your authorized provider, including when it started, where it hurts, and how it affects your life.
• Request a referral to meet with a pain management specialist or physical therapist.
• Don’t stop treatment early, even if it’s not helping yet, as doing so may hurt your claim.
• File a request for a one-time change in treating physician if you’re not being taken seriously.
• Contact our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer if your treatment is delayed, denied, or ignored.

You don’t have to live in pain just because your injury isn’t “visible.” Real recovery means treating the whole injury, including the pain.

To Get The Total Benefits You Need, Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Do you suffer chronic pain from work-related injuries in South Florida? Workers’ compensation may cover pain management and alternative treatment. For help in getting these benefits or dealing with denied and disputed claims, contact our experienced Fort Lauderdale workers’ compensation lawyer.

The Law Offices of David M. Benenfeld, P.A., has over 30 years of experience representing injured workers and can take the legal actions needed to get you the payments you are entitled to. Reach out and request a consultation in our Fort Lauderdale, Sunrise, or West Palm Beach office today.

Sources:

floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/opioid-response/fl-dose/index.html

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0400-0499/0440/Sections/0440.13.html

myfloridacfo.com/division/wc