"Reasonable and related" medical expenses must be covered
If you have a work injury, you are entitled to coverage for all reasonable and related medical bills. Coverage is 100%. There don’t have to pay any co-pays or anything out of pocket.
So what does reasonable and related mean?
A reasonable medical expense is generally one that is recommended by a doctor and one that would probably be recommended by other doctors, as well. The key is to not just have your doctor suggest something but to get it documented, like in the form of a prescription.
Even things that seem unconventional, or extra, can be covered. Examples include gym memberships, special mattresses or pillows, massages, etc. If your doctor believes these things will aid your recovery and help your condition improve, then there’s a good chance they will be covered by workers’ comp.
We don’t promote stretching the truth or looking for a windfall. If there is a treatment out there that a doctor reasonably believes will help you recover, we believe you deserve the option to pursue it.
The second requirement is that the treatment is related to your injury. If you are seeing the same doctor for more than one injury or condition, just know that only the treatment and bills related to your work injury are covered. Often, doctors end up lumping things together in the same bill or statement.
One last thing: If you do end up paying anything out of pocket, keep your receipts. Your attorney should do what they can to get you reimbursed as soon as possible.
We are workers' compensation attorneys that help people with Illinois work injuries anywhere in IL via our statewide network of attorneys. Contact us and we will answer your questions or find the right lawyer for your situation.
