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Does Workers’ Comp Pay for Time Off for Doctor’s Appointments?

Does Workers' Comp Pay for Time Off for Doctor's Appointments

Getting hurt while on the job is a huge inconvenience. Not only are work-related injuries painful, but having to file a claim and rearrange your life is a headache.

Luckily, there are federal laws in place that help to protect you during difficult times. When you’re wounded, your primary focus should be getting your body in better condition.

The good news is that the financial burden is lifted when you’re hurt at work, as opposed to when you’re not.

If are not familiar with the policies and procedures of workers comp, here is some helpful information:

What Are Worker’s Compensation Benefits?

Employers are required to have workers’ compensation insurance to cover any medical care needed to assist injured employees. The coverage also helps to pay for time missed from work.

If you’re hurt on the job, you must fill out an Employee Claim form as quickly as possible after the accident occurs.

You are also required to notify your employer in writing about the details of the injury, including when, where, and how it took place.

Once the claim is filed and both the employer and the insurance provider determine that the injury is work-related, the claim is paid.

Unfortunately, if an accident happens due to negligent behavior like drugs or alcohol, or the intent to injure yourself, the claim could be denied.

Furthermore, if an employer decides to dispute the claim, your benefits are delayed until a judge decides which party is right.

Workers’ Comp: Getting Paid for Time Off During Doctor’s Visits

Once you return to work after an injury, you can receive intermittent lost time for your absence.

However, you must be able to prove the doctor’s appointment is for your work-related injury; keep all of your doctor’s notes.

Also, hold on to your paystubs that show the time missed.

You can choose any worker’s comp doctor you want, as long as they follow the New York State Worker’s Compensation Board regulations.

Thankfully, we have a roster of board-certified workers comp specialists that can help treat a variety of injuries.

What If Your Employer Doesn’t Comply?

If your employer refuses to let you use workers comp benefits for your doctor’s appointments, there is help available.

The Advocate for Injured Workers assists employees with worker compensation complaints.

Their job is to help you protect your rights during the process of your injury. If you run into issues, they’ll investigate any problems that occur.

Recovering After a Serious Injury at Work

When you hurt yourself at work, you don’t have to go through the recovery journey alone.

We’re here to help you feel better and bounce back as much as possible. If you’re unsure how to navigate through the workers’ comp process, contact us.

Our patient advocates can assist you with finding experienced workers’ compensation doctors in New York and New Jersey to treat your injuries, and they’ll provide more helpful information.

We look forward to assisting you soon!

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