When it comes to your health, it is important to feel confident in the medical advice you receive. However, you might find yourself at odds with the diagnosis or treatment plan recommended by your employer’s chosen doctor after a workplace injury.
This raises the question as to whether or not you can seek a second opinion. The short answer is yes, you have the right to obtain another medical opinion, ensuring you make informed decisions about your health.
Understanding your rights
As an employee, you have the right to seek medical care and make decisions about your health independently. This includes obtaining a second opinion if you have doubts about a diagnosis or treatment plan provided by your employer’s doctor. Health experts explain that getting a second opinion can bring clarity to a situation, even if you trust the first doctor you visited.
Navigating the process
If you are considering getting a second opinion, be sure to communicate openly and respectfully with your employer. Explain your concerns and intentions clearly, emphasizing your desire to make well-informed decisions about your health. Many employers understand and respect the importance of seeking additional medical advice when necessary.
Finding the right doctor
When seeking a second opinion, choose a qualified and reputable healthcare professional who specializes in the relevant field. Look for someone who has experience dealing with your specific medical condition or symptoms. Consider looking for a doctor who is independent of your employer’s network to ensure impartiality and objectivity in their assessment.
If you are pursuing a workers’ compensation claim, your employer likely has a preferred doctor they will recommend to you. Your healthcare provider’s accuracy and quality of care can affect the settlement you receive, though. It is of the utmost importance to seek medical care that you trust, even if that means seeking a second opinion.