What Types of Medical Benefits Will Workers’ Compensation Provide?

 Posted on March 06, 2023 in Types of Benefits

An on-the-job injury can be difficult to deal with. These injuries may occur in workplace accidents, or they may be the result of physical strain placed on the body when performing work-related tasks, such as repetitive motions or heavy lifting. In some cases, emergency treatment may be required, while in others, a person may find that they will need surgery to correct damage or ongoing treatment such as physical therapy. Injured workers may be concerned about the costs of this treatment, as well as the financial losses they may experience if an injury limits their ability to work.

Fortunately, workers' compensation benefits can help address these issues. Medical benefits can be especially important, since they will cover the costs of all medical treatment related to a work injury. However, workers may be unsure about exactly what types of treatment will be covered and the procedures they may need to follow. With the help of a workers' compensation attorney, employees who have suffered injuries can make sure they receive all of the treatment necessary to fully address the effects of an injury and return to work.

Medical Expenses Covered by Workers' Compensation in California

The medical benefits that are provided by workers' compensation in California can vary depending on the type of injury or illness that has occurred. Generally speaking, however, most workers' compensation claims will cover doctor visits, prescribed medications, hospital stays, physical therapy, and other treatments necessary to treat a work-related injury or illness. Additionally, if a worker needs specialized equipment such as crutches or a wheelchair due to their injury or illness, these costs can also be covered under workers' compensation.

Medical treatment will continue as long as it is medically necessary. However, treatment must be evidence-based, and standards set by the state of California's medical treatment utilization schedule (MTUS) may determine how long certain types of treatment may be provided. There are some limits on treatment that will be covered, and injured workers will usually be limited to 24 sessions of physical therapy, 24 sessions of occupational therapy, and 24 visits to a chiropractor.

Workers' Rights Regarding Medical Care

When it comes to getting medical care for an injury or illness that occurred while at work in California, there are several rights and protections afforded under state law. For instance, employers must provide information about how employees can access workers' compensation coverage and must make sure that any necessary paperwork is completed in a timely manner. Additionally, employers cannot deny coverage based on fault; instead, all employees who suffer an injury at work should be eligible for coverage, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.

Workers will generally have the right to choose their own physician. However, if an employer's insurance provider uses a medical provider network (MPN), a person will usually be required to use a doctor in this network, unless they designated a doctor prior to being injured.

Finally, employers cannot retaliate against employees who make claims for workers’ compensation benefits. If an employer fires, demotes, or takes any other actions against an employee in response to the employee's report of a workplace injury or workers' comp claim, they could face serious legal repercussions.

Contact Our Hollister Workers' Comp Medical Benefits Lawyers

All in all, workers’ compensation provides many types of medical benefits that can help cover the costs associated with workplace injuries and illnesses in California. While the specifics vary depending on each case, these benefits can range from basic treatments like doctor visits and prescription medications to more specialized services such as surgery, physical therapy, and prosthetic devices. If you have been injured at work, the San Benito County workers' compensation attorneys of Cramer + Martinez can assist with your claim and ensure that you receive the benefits you need. Contact us at 408-848-1113 for a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.dir.ca.gov/dwc/WCFaqIW.html#MedicalCare

https://www.dir.ca.gov/dwc/MTUS/MTUS.html