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What should you ask your doctor during your workers’ comp claim?

On Behalf of | May 8, 2023 | Workers' Compensation |

It is good to know workers’ compensation exists to alleviate economic hardships after a workplace injury. Still, you are feeling much better and probably anxious to get back on the job.

Such enthusiasm is admirable, but don’t be too ready to jump back on the bandwagon. The last thing you need is to aggravate your injury or suffer an entirely new one.

Won’t the doctor tell you all you need to know?

Not necessarily. Many of the nation’s finest physicians aren’t very good at discussing issues with their patients. They are much better at caring for the sick and injured than talking to people. That means it may be up to you to initiate a discussion about your future.

Consider asking your doctor these questions.

  • Are the effects of my workplace injury permanent or long-term?
  • Will I have any physical limitations when I return to my job?
  • Is there any risk of developing injury complications?
  • Will I need regular or ongoing treatment for my work injury?
  • Can you explain the nature of my injuries and how they happened?

Asking these and like questions ensures you are healthy enough to return to work. Perhaps more importantly, the answers you obtain can preserve your benefits if permanent or temporary disability is possible.

What are your next steps?

Hopefully, your workplace injuries are relatively minor and not expected to cause lasting harm. Still, it is wisest to anticipate possible problems with your workers’ comp claim and take steps to minimize them.

For example, professional legal guidance in preparing your Virginia workers’ compensation documents reduces your risk of a claim denial.