Brian Q. McDonnell, HKQ Attorney
Jul 8, 2024
What medical treatment options do I have following a workplace injury?
Understanding medical treatment options after a workplace injury is crucial to make sure you receive proper care and compensation under Pennsylvania's Workers' Compensation Act. It’s important for you to explore the requirements, exceptions, and considerations regarding medical treatment panels and options for injured workers.
Panel of Providers Requirement
One key part of Pennsylvania's Workers' Compensation system is what’s called “the panel of providers requirement.” This requirement impacts where injured workers can seek medical treatment within the first 90 days after suffering an injury:
Employer's Panel of Providers: Some employers maintain a designated panel of healthcare providers that injured employees must choose from for initial treatment. These panels typically consist of pre-approved medical professionals who are authorized to provide treatment to the employees under the Workers' Compensation Act.
Treatment Within the Panel: If your employer has a panel of providers, you are required to seek treatment from one of these authorized providers for the first 90 days following your injury. If you fail to do so, it may result in your medical bills not being covered by workers' compensation.
Exceptions and Legal Counsel: There are exceptions to this rule, and it is essential to consult with an experienced workers' compensation attorney to understand your rights and options. Exceptions may include circumstances where the employer's panel is inadequate or if immediate medical attention is necessary and not available within the panel.
Importance of Legal Guidance
Understanding the fine points of the panel of providers requirement and its implications for your medical treatment is crucial for protecting your rights and making sure you get proper care:
Consulting with an Attorney: If you have questions about your employer's panel of providers or if you believe you are not receiving adequate care, consulting with a workers' compensation attorney can give you clarity and proper guidance. An attorney can evaluate your case, advocate for your medical needs, and make sure legal requirements are followed.
How Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn Can Assist You
At Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn, our dedicated team of workers' compensation attorneys is committed to helping injured workers navigate Pennsylvania's complex legal system. We provide personalized legal representation to make sure that our clients receive the medical treatment and benefits they are entitled to under the law.
Contact Our Legal Team Today
If you have been injured at work and have questions about medical treatment options or the panel of providers requirement, we encourage you to reach out to Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn for a consultation. Our attorneys are here to listen to your concerns, provide expert legal advice, and help you in pursuing the compensation and medical care you deserve.
For more detailed information on our legal services or to schedule a consultation with one of our workers' compensation attorneys, please call us at 570-287-3000 or email us at info@hkqlaw.com.
Conclusion
Navigating medical treatment options under Pennsylvania's Workers' Compensation Act requires a thorough understanding of the panel of providers requirement and related legal considerations. By seeking guidance from experienced attorneys at Hourigan, Kluger and Quinn, you can make sure that your medical needs are met and that you receive fair compensation for your workplace injuries.