You care about getting the right medical care after a job injury. Your choice of doctor may also affect treatment approvals and benefits.
How doctor choice works in Virginia
Virginia uses a “panel of physicians” system. After you report the injury, your employer must give you a list of at least three independent doctors. You choose one and that doctor becomes your authorized treating physician. Under Va. Code §65.2-603, the law requires employers to provide this panel and states that workers’ comp covers charges tied to the injury, including treatment, referrals, diagnostics and prescriptions from the authorized doctor.
If no panel or a defective panel
You may choose your own doctor if your employer fails to provide a panel after you report the injury. A panel counts as defective if the doctors are not truly independent such as when they all work in the same practice. Keep records of when you reported the injury and when you received the list to avoid disputes.
Steps to choose your doctor
You may take actions in order so you protect treatment and payment. You can do the following:
- Report the injury: Tell your employer as soon as possible.
- Get the panel: Request a list of at least three independent doctors.
- Select your physician: Pick one who fits your medical needs.
- Follow referrals: Use specialists recommended by your authorized doctor.
These steps help you keep your care covered and your claim on track.
Switching doctors
You may request a change in limited situations such as release from care at MMI, relocation that makes travel unreasonable or lack of improvement with proper treatment. Document why a change will help your recovery and benefits.
What injuries workers’ comp may cover
Workers’ comp covers injuries from accidents on the job, repetitive stress conditions like carpal tunnel and occupational illnesses tied to workplace exposures. The system may deny claims tied to intoxication, fighting or horseplay. Timely reporting and medical documentation strengthen your case.
What you can do next
You usually must choose from your employer’s panel but you may choose your own doctor if no valid panel exists. Because your choice of doctor affects both treatment and benefits, it may be useful to consult an attorney if disputes arise about panels, referrals or switching physicians. An experienced lawyer can explain your options and help protect your claim.