Medical providers play a vital role in workers’ compensation cases. They’re responsible for diagnosing injuries, recommending treatment and overseeing your recovery. Their evaluation of your condition is very important for determining your benefits and when you can return to work.
If you’re wondering whether you can change doctors during your workers’ comp case, it’s important to understand your rights and the answer under Ohio law.
Yes, you can change doctors in Ohio
Unlike other states, Ohio allows injured workers considerable flexibility when it comes to changing their workers’ comp doctor. Here’s what you need to know:
- Freedom of choice: You can select any doctor certified by the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) to be your physician of record.
- No numerical limit: State law doesn’t restrict how many times you can change your doctor throughout your claim.
- Proper process: To change doctors, you must file a C-23 form with the BWC. This ensures your new doctor is recognized for your claim.
- Timing considerations: While there’s no legal limit, frequent changes might raise questions about the necessity and potentially impact your claim.
- Reason for change: It’s helpful to have a valid reason for changing doctors, such as needing specialized care or lack of improvement.
- Continuity of care: Ensure the transfer of your medical records to maintain consistent treatment.
Remember, your medical care is crucial to your recovery and your workers’ comp claim. While Ohio gives you more freedom than many other states in choosing your doctor, make thoughtful decisions that support your health and your claim.
Remember to choose someone BWC-certified
Selecting a BWC-certified doctor is essential to ensure workers’ compensation covers your medical treatment. The bureau may not cover treatment from a non-certified provider, and you risk being responsible for medical costs related to your work injury. You can find a BWC-certified doctor through the BWC’s online directory or by contacting the bureau directly.
Choose a BWC-certified provider to protect your claim when changing doctors. It’s an important step that protects your health and your right to workers’ comp benefits.