Oakland Workers Compensation Attorneys

Legal complexities after a workplace injury can be intimidating. Our workers' compensation attorneys are here to assist. With relentless dedication and specialized knowledge, our team is devoted to advocating for the rights of injured workers. We ensure you receive fair treatment and the compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on healing.

Navigating the workers' compensation system in Iowa can be complex, especially when dealing with medical treatments, disputes, and understanding your rights regarding medical care. This comprehensive guide aims to provide clarity on common issues such as epidural injections for back pain, seeking alternative medical care, and the right to choose your doctor.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits & Epidural Injections for Back Pain

Workers involved in heavy lifting often suffer from back problems, necessitating epidural injections as part of their treatment. These injections should be covered by workers’ compensation, but issues may arise in getting them approved. If you face such problems, you can file an appeal with the Iowa Workers’ Compensation Commissioner (IWCC).

Understanding Epidural Injections

The epidural space is a fat-filled area between the dura mater surrounding the spinal cord and the vertebra wall. During an epidural injection, corticosteroids are injected into this space to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Conditions treated include disc herniations, spinal stenosis, and spondylolysis. Typically, injections are administered every couple of weeks over several weeks.

Possible complications, which should be thoroughly discussed with your doctor, include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Dural punctures

Workers’ Compensation Disputes Involving Epidural Injections

Workers' compensation generally covers medical expenses and disability benefits related to workplace injuries. These benefits are mandatory for injuries sustained during employment, including accidents and repetitive trauma. However, disputes may arise if the employer-chosen doctor downplays the severity of the injury or denies treatment. In such cases, you can file an appeal for alternative medical treatment with the IWCC.

If your condition becomes a permanent disability, it is classified as an industrial disability under workers' compensation. Factors influencing the duration and amount of PPD benefits include the injury, impairment, restrictions, skills, education, and work experience. Disputes often arise if the employee believes the impairment rating is too low.

Iowan's Right to Seek Alternative Medical Care

Under Iowa law, you have the right to seek medical treatment on your own, but it is typically at your own expense unless you win a petition for alternate medical care. If the insurance company offers medical care, you should cooperate with their treatment. If their doctors offer no further treatment and another doctor recommends additional care, you may file a petition for alternate medical care.

Tips for an Independent Medical Examination (IME)

Once the company doctor evaluates you for a permanent impairment rating, you have the right to a second opinion (IME) with a doctor of your choice, paid for by the insurance company. Here are some tips for an IME:

1. Choosing the Right Doctor: Selecting an experienced and unbiased doctor is crucial. Some IME doctors may favor insurance companies, so seek recommendations from knowledgeable sources, such as a workers' comp attorney.
   
2. Insurance Coverage: The insurance company should cover roundtrip mileage, missed work time, examination fees, and any testing ordered by the IME doctor.

3. Follow-Up Care: If the IME doctor recommends additional treatment, you can proceed with the alternative medical care process to compel the insurance company to provide the recommended treatment.

Can You See Your Own Doctor After a Work Injury in Iowa?

Technically, you have the right to see your own doctor after a work injury, but significant caveats exist. Your employer and their insurance carrier typically only pay for approved medical care, usually from their chosen physicians. Consult your employer before seeking treatment from your doctor to avoid claim rejection by your health insurance.

Receiving Medical Help After a Work Injury

Iowa law allows employers to choose the medical care you receive. If dissatisfied with the care, discuss your concerns with your employer. You can request alternative care, but the employer or insurance carrier may deny it, requiring an appeal to the workers' compensation commissioner.

What to Do If Unsatisfied With Their Doctor

If you're unhappy with the medical care, file a petition for alternate medical care to get a judge's approval to see your chosen doctor, covered by workers' comp. This process can be challenging and typically requires a qualified workers' comp attorney.

Refusing Recommended Care

You have the right to refuse recommended medical procedures. For example, if a hip replacement is suggested and you decline, it could impact your workers' comp claim. Discuss such decisions with an experienced attorney to understand the implications.

Getting Legal Assistance In Oakland

Navigating the complexities of Iowa workers' compensation laws can be daunting, especially during the recovery process from a workplace injury. Seeking guidance from a seasoned Oakland Workers' Comp attorney is invaluable in ensuring your rights are protected and maximizing your chances of a favorable outcome.

Legal professionals play a pivotal role in gathering evidence, preparing documentation, and advocating for your interests throughout the claims process. Don't risk missing out on the compensation you deserve – enlist the support of a qualified attorney to navigate the complexities with confidence.

The Iowa Workers' Compensation attorney team at Walker, Billingsley & Bair know the importance of protecting your work injury claim from the get-go. That's why we provide this FREE book; Iowa Workers' Compensation - An Insider's Guide to Work Injuries: 7 Deadly Mistakes To Avoid If You Are Hurt At Work. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa work injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation - 641-792-3595.