When you are injured at work, your employer cannot force you to go to the “company doctor” for treatment. However, an employer does have the right to require a drug test following a work-related injury. An employer may also schedule an independent medical examination (IME). The employer must comply with Ohio law and provide adequate notice prior to the scheduled IME. If your employer or the BWC has scheduled you for an IME, it is advisable for you to seek legal representation immediately.
In Ohio, injured workers have the right to choose their medical providers. However, such providers must be certified by the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) and be willing to accept payment through the Ohio worker’s compensation system. But be careful – three visits constitute an election of a physician. After that, you will need to file a form requesting permission to change physicians.
Get Legal Help if You’ve Been Hurt at Work
If you are having a difficult time locating a physician willing to treat your worker’s compensation injury or have been scheduled for an IME, contact Taubman Law for a free consultation. We can protect your rights and help you determine if you have a case for workers’ compensation.