If you’ve been injured on the job in Minnesota, one of the questions you may have is whether you can choose your own doctor for workers’ compensation purposes. The answer to this question can vary depending on the state you’re in and the specific circumstances of your case. In this blog post, we’ll clear up the confusion and explain your rights when it comes to choosing a doctor for your workers’ comp claim in Minnesota.
1. Employer’s Right to Choose Initial Doctor
In Minnesota, your employer has the right to choose the initial doctor who will treat you for your work-related injury. This means that if you are injured on the job, your employer may direct you to a specific doctor or medical provider for an initial evaluation and treatment. This initial choice of doctor is often referred to as the “designated medical provider.”
2. Changing Doctors
While your employer has the right to choose the initial doctor, you do have the right to request a change of doctor under certain circumstances. If you are not satisfied with the care you are receiving from the designated medical provider, you may be able to request a one-time change of doctor within the same medical group or clinic.
If you wish to change doctors outside of the same medical group or clinic, you will need to obtain written approval from your employer, the workers’ compensation insurer, or the Department of Labor and Industry. This approval is known as a “medical request form.”
3. Exceptions to Employer’s Right to Choose
There are some exceptions to the employer’s right to choose the initial doctor in Minnesota. For example, if your employer does not provide you with a list of designated medical providers within 14 days of your injury, you may be able to choose your own doctor. Additionally, if you require emergency medical treatment, you have the right to seek treatment from the nearest available medical provider, regardless of whether they are on your employer’s list of designated providers.
4. Importance of Choosing the Right Doctor
Choosing the right doctor for your workers’ compensation claim is important, as the doctor’s opinion can have a significant impact on your case. It’s important to choose a doctor who is familiar with workers’ compensation laws and regulations and who will provide you with the care and treatment you need to recover from your injury.
While your employer has the right to choose the initial doctor for your workers’ compensation claim in Minnesota, you do have the right to request a change of doctor under certain circumstances. It’s important to understand your rights and options when it comes to choosing a doctor for your workers’ comp claim. If you have questions or need assistance with your workers’ compensation claim, the experienced attorneys at Patterson Dahlberg, Injury Lawyers are here to help. Contact our Rochester, Minnesota office at 507-424-3000 or our Lakeville, Minnesota office at 612-474-3000 to schedule a free consultation today.