If you’re hurt on the job, you have the right to various benefits, including payment for medical treatment and related expenses.
What Medical Treatment and Expenses Are Covered?
If you get injured at work or develop a work-related illness, you are entitled to all necessary medical treatment to help you recover. This includes:
- Clinical, surgical and hospital treatment, as well as physical therapy, chiropractic and acupuncture
- Prescription medications and durable medical equipment, such as wheelchairs, crutches, orthotic devices, and prosthetic devices
- Other necessary medical supplies and equipment
- Mileage and transportation expenses to doctor visits, physical therapy, and the pharmacy
Limits on Medical Treatment Benefits
There are some limits to these benefits:
- Evidence-Based Treatment: California law requires that medical treatments be scientifically proven to help your injury or illness. These treatments are listed in the state’s “medical treatment utilization schedule.”
- Medical Provider Network (MPN): Employers can set up a network of pre-approved doctors and healthcare providers. If your employer has an MPN, you must see a doctor within this network unless you have already designated a personal doctor. To pre-designate a doctor, you need to:
- Provide written notice to your employer before getting injured
- Include your doctor’s name and address
- Ensure the doctor has seen you before and has your medical records
- Confirm the doctor agrees to be your designated doctor
We’re Here to Help
Navigating workers’ compensation can be complex. At DuRard, McKenna & Borg, we fight for injured workers to ensure you get all the medical and other benefits you deserve. Our team includes Spanish speakers to serve our diverse community. We offer free initial consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win your case.