Who Chooses the Doctor for a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Connecticut?
Workplace injuries can happen in any profession—from repetitive strain in office jobs to severe injuries in construction or manufacturing. When Connecticut workers get hurt or develop a job-related illness, workers’ compensation benefits provide medical coverage and wage replacement to support their recovery.
One critical factor in any workers’ compensation claim is who oversees your medical treatment. The doctor treating your injury plays a key role in determining the care you receive, the limitations on your work activities, and when you can return to your job. But who has the right to choose this doctor—you or your employer?
Can You Choose Your Own Doctor?
In Connecticut, injured workers generally have the right to choose their own doctor for treatment under a workers’ compensation claim. However, there are some key considerations:
1. Employer-Selected Initial Treatment
In some cases, especially in emergency situations, an employer may direct an injured worker to a designated physician or clinic for the initial medical evaluation. This is common when immediate medical care is required following an accident.
2. Choosing Your Own Doctor
After the initial evaluation, workers have the right to select their own physician for continued treatment among the physicians that are on the workers’ compensation insurance carrier’s list of approved physicians. That said, the workers’ compensation insurance carrier’s typically have a large list of approved physicians This is important because a you want to make sure to select a doctor that has your best interest as their top priority.
3. Switching Doctors Mid-Claim
If you are unhappy with the care you are receiving, you can request a change in doctors. However, you must file the appropriate paperwork with the Connecticut Workers’ Compensation Commission to switch physicians.
Why Does Your Doctor Choice Matter?
Your doctor will play a crucial role in your recovery and workers’ compensation claim, including:
Determining Necessary Medical Treatment – The doctor decides what procedures, medications, and therapies you need.
Setting Work Restrictions – They determine if and when you can return to work and any restrictions on your job duties.
Assessing Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) – If your condition stabilizes but doesn’t fully recover, your doctor decides what long-term care you need and whether you qualify for permanent disability benefits.
A doctor chosen by an employer or insurance company may focus on minimizing costs rather than ensuring your full recovery. Having control over your medical care can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim.
Know Your Rights—Sousa Law, LLC Can Help
If you're dealing with a workers’ compensation claim in Connecticut, understanding your rights is crucial. At Sousa Law, LLC, we ensure that injured workers receive fair treatment, quality medical care, and the full benefits they deserve. If you have questions about your claim or need help changing doctors, we’re here to advocate for you.
Injured at Work? Contact Sousa Law, LLC Today
Your recovery and your rights matter. If you need guidance on your workers’ compensation claim, including choosing the right doctor, call Sousa Law, LLC at (203) 929-8283 for a free consultation. Let’s make sure you get the care and benefits you deserve.