If you were injured on the job, you are probably covered under your state workers’ compensation insurance.
Workers’ compensation insurance is a state program that pays for your medical care and some of your wages.
Workers’ compensation systems vary from state to state. Contact your state office to learn about your rights.
You will be assigned a workers’ compensation case manager who can help you get the benefits you are entitled to. You may request a different case manager if you feel the one assigned to you is not a good fit.
It is important for you to know your claim number and to be in touch with your case manager regarding your treatment and plan to return to work.
Your case manager can help you get the treatment you need and make the transition back to work go more smoothly.
Your case manager can also be a great resource in helping you navigate the complex worker’s compensation system.
You may need an Independent Medical Evaluation (IME) What is this?
How to make the worker’s compensation process go smoothly:
Keep all your paperwork.
Know your claim number.
Keep in touch with your claims manager about your progress in treatment and return to work.
Always keep your medical appointments so your claims stays open.
Remind your health provider to send in the required paperwork so your claim is not closed early.
Make sure your case manager knows the name and address of your attending physician. Good communication between your physician, you, and your claims manager is essential to the smooth delivery of benefits.
Make sure your address is current in the worker’s compensation file.
Do not ignore calls, mail or other forms of communication from the workers’ compensation program. Some of these may require you to respond before a certain deadline!