How Can I Receive Medical Attention for a Work Injury in Colorado?

 Posted on May 04, 2020 in Workplace Injury

Every job comes with certain risks, and some occupations can be more dangerous than others. If you suffer a workplace injury in any type of industry, the consequences can be devastating. It is imperative that you seek proper medical attention quickly. However, Colorado has a specific timeline and method that employers and workers must follow regarding the choice of a medical provider. A knowledgeable workers’ compensation attorney can play a key role in this process, as they will be able to help you navigate the law and ensure that you receive the benefits that you deserve.

Selecting a Medical Practitioner

Colorado law dictates that either an employer or his or her workers’ compensation insurance company has the right to choose a designated medical provider. In most cases, a victim of a workplace injury must be given a list of at least four physicians or corporate medical providers to choose from if available. This is to prevent a victim from not having any say in the matter. To ensure that the selections are at least somewhat diverse, one of the doctors on the list must have distinct ownership. This means that an employer cannot just present a list of providers who are under shared ownership and at the same location.

If you sustained a workplace injury, and your employer did not designate any medical providers for you, you will receive the full medical benefits from workers’ compensation for any doctor you choose. Note that you can seek help from a doctor of your choice no matter what, but you may not be able to have medical expenses covered if you use a provider that is not one of your employer’s choices.

Why Does Colorado Law Dictate How You Choose a Doctor?

Since medical treatment for most workplace injuries can be expensive, these laws aim to find a compromise between quality medical care and cost-effectiveness. These designated medical providers will also be able to make referrals to specialists and define any restrictions for if and when an injured employee returns to work. The law is intended to accommodate both employees and insurance providers, and a skilled attorney can help guide you through the best course of action.

Contact a Ft. Collins Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Even if finding a medical provider and receiving workers’ compensation benefits seems clear cut in your case, an experienced Larimer County workplace injury lawyer can help make sure that you receive the best possible care along with the insurance benefits that you are entitled to by law. The accomplished team at Hoggatt Law Office, P.C. can offer you the legal guidance that you need. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 970-225-2190.

Sources:
https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdle/faq-wc
https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdle/designating-medical-provider