Being injured at work is stressful enough without having to question whether you are receiving the right medical care. However, many Minnesota workers find themselves disagreeing with their doctors about diagnosis, treatment, or their ability to return to work.
The state workers’ compensation system recognizes that medical opinions can differ and allows injured employees to seek second opinions, but navigating these processes can be complicated.
Understanding when you can request a second opinion, how the process works, and the protections available can help you obtain the medical care you need.
If disputes arise, a Minneapolis workers’ compensation attorney can guide you through the process, ensure your rights are protected, and advocate for the medical treatment you deserve.
When you suffer a workplace injury in Minnesota, you generally have the right to choose your own doctor to treat your work-related injury. In some situations, your employer may pressure you to see a designated healthcare provider instead.
Unfortunately, the doctors selected by your employer sometimes minimize the severity of injuries. They may rush you back to work before you have fully recovered, potentially aggravating your condition. In these situations, securing a second opinion is critical to your health and long-term recovery.
You have the right to request a second opinion if you disagree with your doctor’s injury assessment or treatment plan, or if your employer questions the necessity of a treatment like non-emergency surgery.
This protection gives you time to carefully consider major medical decisions and ensures that you are making informed choices about your treatment.
When preparing for a second opinion appointment, gather all your medical records and have them sent to the new doctor for review. Write down your questions beforehand and consider bringing someone with you as a witness.
After receiving the second opinion, you may find that the doctors disagree about your diagnosis or treatment plan. If you and your employer disagree about which medical opinion to follow, you may need to consider seeking a third opinion.
The second opinion process can get complicated very quickly. Consider hiring a Minnesota workers’ comp lawyer to guide you through the process. Your lawyer can help coordinate medical evaluations, interpret conflicting opinions, and advocate for the care best suited to your needs.
Your employer is financially responsible for all costs related to obtaining a second medical opinion in a workers’ compensation claim.
Whether you request the additional evaluation or your employer insists on one before approving surgery, they must cover all examination expenses. This requirement makes it easier for you to seek the medical opinions that you need, regardless of your current financial situation.
In many workers’ compensation claims, exercising your right to a second opinion is necessary for your long-term health and security.
A Minnesota workers’ compensation attorney can help you navigate the process of obtaining additional medical evaluations, challenge inadequate treatment plans, and fight for the care your work-related injury requires.
Your attorney can also help you access additional benefits you may be entitled to, such as permanent disability benefits and vocational rehabilitation services if your injury prevents you from returning to your previous job.
Contact a Minnesota workers’ comp lawyer at Kemmitt, Sanford & Kramer today and learn how they can advocate for your rights.
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