Do I have the right to choose my own doctor?
Answer
You do under the Workers’ Compensation Act. If you’re injured at work and entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, then you’re entitled to choose the doctor who treats you and helps you recover. This is usually a decision made at the beginning of your case. From time to time, the doctor you choose may decide you need to see a specialist—an orthopedic surgeon, neurologist, or another provider—and you’re entitled to that referral as long as the treatment is reasonable and necessary. You do not have to let anyone else pick your doctor for you, especially not the insurance company. For more clarity on your medical rights, you can review our Rhode Island workers compensation attorney resource or visit the RI workers’ comp benefits. You may also want to explore related topics like what happens when treatment is denied or how medical evidence shapes your case.
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