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Can You See Your Own Doctor After a Work Injury in Iowa? (Part A)

The laws surrounding Iowa Workers' Compensation are complicated, particularly for those who aren't accustomed to deciphering legalese. While these benefits are provided to workers who are injured while on the job, the specifics of each case will impact many aspects of the claim. Consulting with a Workers' Compensation attorney in Des Moines is one way to protect your rights if you have experienced a work injury.

It's also important to keep in mind that while your employer is required to carry Iowa Workers' Compensation they may not inform you of the rights you have. A Workers' Compensation attorney in Altoona will be glad to sit down with you and discuss what you may be entitled to after suffering injury or illness because of a work injury.

Your Right to See Your Own Doctor after a Work Injury

If you have experienced a work injury you technically have a right to see your own doctor, but there are some pretty significant caveats to this statement when it comes to Iowa Workers' Compensation. Your employer and their insurance carrier will typically only pay for medical care that has been approved or authorized. In most cases, this means medical care that is administered by the physician or physicians of their choosing. Be sure to ask your company representative before you seek medical treatment for your work injury from a doctor other than the "company" doctor or one chosen under your employer's Iowa Workers' Compensation directives.

Before going to your own doctor you should also know that your health insurance provider may reject your claim because it stems from a work injury. This is due to the fact that, technically, Iowa Workers' Compensation benefits should pay for your medical care.

If you are not satisfied with the level of medical care offered by your employer or their insurance company you can always file a petition to receive alternative medical care.

In order to file your petition you will need to meet specific legal requirements. This is where an Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney can help. Of course you also face the possibility that your employer may deny liability, which will cause your petition to be dismissed.

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