No industry or type of business is immune to dealing with workers’ compensation claims. An injury on the job can range from neck pain to tripping and falling.
If you’re injured on the job, make sure you get the most out of your claim. Most companies have a process to follow through your supervisor and human resources department. However, doing or saying the wrong thing can result in a claim denial or a reduction in benefits.
Follow these simple tips about what to do and what not to say to a workers comp doctor when filing your claim!
Don’t Say Too Much
Your company probably has a specific list of worker’s compensation doctors to evaluate you during your injury claim. The doctor will ask questions about your injury and what happened.
Stick to the specifics and the basics. Avoid telling a detailed story or trying to embellish what happened to make your situation seem worse than it is. You might say something that causes the doctor to become suspicious about your on-the-job injury. If the doctor doubts any part of your claim or your health complaint doesn’t match the injury you describe, that could affect your workers compensation benefits.
Watch Your Behavior
From the moment you experience an injury, assume your supervisor and the worker’s compensation team have their eyes on you. If you claim a back or knee injury but walk into the doctor’s office without any symptoms, the receptionist might let the doctor know that you seemed injury-free when you first arrived.
Say “No” to Recordings
Your worker’s comp rep or anyone who interviews during your claims process has to inform you if they want to record a conversation. Say “no” to a recorded interview or conversation unless your attorney is with you or gives permission for a recording.
See Your Own Doctor
Your company will require you to see their approved doctors for treatment. However, you can also see your own doctor.
As soon as you’re able, make an appointment to see your primary care physician. They can verify a diagnosis and provide documentation to support your injury claim and recommended treatment.
Keep Good Records
Document everything and keep good records! Whether in a digital format or hard copies, save a copy of every piece of paperwork. If you need to refer to a report or a document, have it readily available to support your claim and expedite the process.
Be Honest
In every conversation from the immediate moments following your injury, be honest. Whether it’s a fall injury or you’re suffering from mold in the office, be sure to represent what happened and what you need to recover accurately.
Know What Not to Say to a Workers Comp Doctor
Knowing what not to say to a workers comp doctor can help you receive a better settlement. We hope you’re never injured on the job, but if you are, follow these tips to get the most from your claim.
If you found this information helpful, be sure to check out more of our articles!
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