Keeping control over your medical treatment
In some states, injured workers don’t get to choose their doctor. The employer – and the employer’s insurance company – gets to pick. Illinois law, on the other hand, leaves the choice up to the injured worker, for the most part.
If your employer tells you who you must see, you do not have to agree. In fact, it’s usually in your best interest to see your regular doctor, whom you already know and trust, rather than a physician chosen by the insurance company. Your priority is your health and recovery. The insurer’s priority is quite different.
Although Illinois law allows the worker considerable choice, there are limits. The law says that an injured worker can choose two doctors. If they decide to see a third after that, it must be approved by the employer, or it won’t be covered. The two-doctor rule does not include referrals. You basically get two chains of doctors – each chain being the doctor you choose and anyone they refer you to. Seeing a doctor for emergency care shouldn’t count as one of the two.
Another thing to keep in mind about medical benefits and treatment in Illinois is that anything related to your injury should be covered 100%. There should be no co-pays or out of pocket costs.
The insurance company may assign you a nurse case manager. This person is not in charge of your medical treatment. They should not attend your doctor appointments – and you should refuse if they ask. And they don’t get to talk to your doctor about anything except requesting medical records.
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.
