Handling a dispute about treatment during a workers’ comp claim

Florida workers’ compensation coverage can pay for many different kinds of medical treatment. When a Florida employee breaks a bone or suffers a brain injury on the job, they can receive necessary medical support without incurring any personal expense.

Workers’ compensation can pay for surgery, medication, physical therapy, and emergency trauma care. Medical benefits can cover both stabilization treatments immediately after an incident and care intended to get a worker back on the job.

Unlike health insurance, workers’ compensation medical coverage does not force a worker to pay for some of their treatment costs. However, the care that they receive largely depends on the perspective of the doctor overseeing their care. What happens if they end up disagreeing with the doctor about the treatment they require?

Workers have rights during disputes

Particularly, the treatment instructions of the physician are the most important consideration in a workers’ compensation claim in Florida. The doctor overseeing treatment decides when a worker is ready to return to their job. They decide what kind of treatment or therapy might help them. Their recommendations guide everything from the duration of disability benefits to the type of care the worker can receive.

When an employee disagrees with a doctor’s opinion, they do have the option of requesting a second opinion from an unaffiliated medical professional. The Florida workers’ compensation program typically only covers one second opinion. If a worker still disagrees with what doctors say, they may have to seek additional testing or evaluation using their own resources.

Occasionally, it may also be necessary to appeal a determination made by a physician. Workers can restart the benefits after their sudden termination or can challenge the claim that they are ready to return to work. Contested workers’ compensation claims can be much more difficult to navigate than a basic claim with no disagreements about a worker’s condition or the treatment they require.

Having support when pursuing a contested workers’ compensation claim can make a major difference for an employee with a medical issue caused by their career. Those who know their rights and who seek out proper support may have a better outcome than those with limited support and information.

Disagreements with a workers’ compensation doctor can leave injured employees feeling powerless, but you have rights. At Smith, Feddeler & Smith, P.A., we help Florida workers navigate disputes over medical treatment, second opinions, and benefit denials. If your doctor’s opinion doesn’t reflect your pain or limitations, don’t settle. Contact our team to explore your legal options and fight for the full care and compensation you deserve.

Areas We Serve