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When you suffer a work-related injury in Des Moines, Iowa, your health and recovery are immediate priorities. Navigating the workers' compensation system can be complex, especially regarding selecting a doctor for your treatment. Understanding your rights and options under Iowa’s workers' compensation laws is crucial for ensuring you receive appropriate medical care.
Iowa Workers' Compensation and Medical Provider Selection
In Iowa, the rules for selecting a medical provider for workers' compensation cases are relatively strict. Generally, the employer and their workers' compensation insurance carrier have the right to choose the medical provider for an injured worker.
Employer's Right to Choose
Under Iowa law, the employer has the right to select the initial treating physician. This means that if you are injured on the job, your employer or their insurance company will typically direct you to a specific doctor or network of providers for your medical treatment.
Emergency Situations
In emergencies, you are allowed to seek immediate treatment from the nearest available healthcare provider. This exception ensures that you receive urgent care without unnecessary delays, even if your employer or their representative cannot be reached.
What Type of Care Must the Employer Provide?
The employer is required to provide medical care that is reasonably suited to treat the employee's work injury. This includes all necessary services and supplies, such as crutches, artificial limbs, appliances, and permanent prosthetic devices.
Inclusions in Medical Benefits: Medical benefits under workers' compensation in Iowa cover a broad range of services and supplies, including:
- Crutches, artificial limbs, and other appliances
- Hearing aids, corrective lenses, orthodontic devices, and dentures
- Orthopedic braces and other therapeutic devices
If any of these items are damaged or made unusable due to a work injury, or in efforts to avoid an injury, the employer or their insurance carrier is responsible for repair or replacement.
Dissatisfaction with Employer-Chosen Care
If you are dissatisfied with the medical care provided by the employer's chosen doctor, there are steps you can take to seek alternate care.
Discuss the Problem: First, discuss your concerns with your employer or their insurance carrier. Sometimes, issues can be resolved through direct communication.
Request for Alternate Care: If the problem persists, you can formally request alternate care. If the employer or their insurance carrier denies this request, you can file a petition for alternate care with the Iowa Division of Workers' Compensation (DWC).
Travel Expenses for Medical Care
The employer's responsibility to pay for medical care includes covering reasonable and necessary travel expenses incurred during treatment. This may include:
- Mileage for using a private car
- Meals and lodging incidental to treatment
- Public transportation costs
- Taxi fares and ambulance services
The mileage reimbursement rate for travel is based on the business standard mileage rate allowed by the federal Internal Revenue Service (IRS), effective each year on July 1.
Legal Guidance and Support
Navigating the complexities of workers' compensation and understanding your rights regarding medical treatment can be challenging. At Hope Law Firm, our experienced workers' compensation attorneys are here to guide you through the process, ensuring you receive the medical care and benefits you are entitled to.
We can help you understand Iowa’s specific regulations, assist in obtaining necessary approvals, and advocate on your behalf if disputes arise.
Secure the Best Care for Your Recovery with Legal Guidance from Hope Law Firm
Choosing your doctor for treatment under workers' compensation in Des Moines, Iowa, involves understanding specific state regulations and potential challenges. Having knowledgeable legal support can help you make informed decisions and secure the best possible care.
Reach out to Hope Law Firm today at (515) 298-5056 to learn more.