After a workplace injury, many employees aren’t sure about what happens next. This is especially true when it comes to medical treatment. One of the most common questions that injured workers ask is whether they’re required to see a doctor chosen by their employer or workers’ compensation insurance company.
In Michigan, workers’ compensation laws give employers certain rights regarding medical treatment during the early stages of a claim. However, injured workers also have important rights when it comes to their care. Understanding how the process works can help you protect both your health and your workers’ compensation benefits.
Why Employers Direct Medical Treatment
Under Michigan workers’ compensation law , employers generally have the right to direct medical care for a limited period after a workplace injury. This means that they may require injured employees to see a specific doctor or medical provider approved by the company.
The purpose of this process is to evaluate the injury, determine what treatment is needed, and assess whether the employee can safely return to work. Insurance companies also rely on these medical evaluations when deciding whether benefits should be approved or continued.
Because these evaluations can significantly impact a claim, the doctor’s opinion often plays a major role in the overall workers’ compensation process.
How Long Do You Have to See the Company Doctor in Michigan?
In Michigan, employers typically have the right to choose the treating doctor for the first 28 days after the injury is reported. During this period, injured workers are usually expected to treat with the employer-approved provider if they want their medical treatment covered through workers’ compensation.
After the 28-day period ends, employees usually have the right to choose their own doctor for ongoing treatment. However, there are important procedural steps that need to be followed.
For example, if you switch doctors after the initial period, you’re generally required to notify your employer and the workers’ compensation insurance company. Failing to follow these rules can create complications regarding coverage for treatment.
What’s a Company Doctor?
A “company doctor” is a medical provider selected or approved by the employer or workers’ compensation insurance carrier. These doctors often handle workplace injury cases regularly and are familiar with workers’ compensation requirements.
Their role can include:
- Diagnosing workplace injuries
- Recommending treatment plans
- Determining work restrictions
- Evaluating when an employee can return to work
The opinions of the company doctor can directly impact your ability to receive wage loss benefits and ongoing medical treatment.
Why Medical Documentation is So Important
Medical records are one of the most critical parts of any workers’ compensation claim. The doctor’s reports help establish things like whether the injury was work-related, the severity of the injury, and what treatment is necessary for it.
Because of this, it’s important to be honest and thorough when describing your symptoms and all limitations during your medical appointments. If injuries are understated or not properly documented, it can negatively impact your claim later on.
Consistent treatment and clear communication with medical providers can help to support your case.
What if the Company Doctor Says You Can Return to Work?
In some situations, the company doctor determines that you’re able to return to work, even if you still feel injured. This can create confusion and stress for the injured employee.
Sometimes, the doctor can release you for “light-duty” work with restrictions as opposed to the full-duty work. If your employer offers a position that meets those restrictions, refusing the work could potentially impact your workers’ compensation benefits.
However, if you believe that the doctor’s evaluation doesn’t accurately reflect your condition, you might have options for obtaining additional medical opinions after the employer’s 28-day control period ends.
Seeking Legal Guidance
Workers’ compensation claims can become complicated when disputes arise over medical treatment, work restrictions, or benefit eligibility. Working with an experienced firm like Duff Law can help injured workers better understand their options.
An attorney can explain your rights under Michigan Law, address disputes with insurance companies, and help ensure that your medical treatment and benefits are handled properly.