Who Pays the Medical Bills After a Work Injury?
If you’ve been injured on the job in Western Pennsylvania, you might be curious who’s responsible for covering your medical bills. Dealing with a work injury and the workers’ compensation system can be a confusing experience, especially when you’re also trying to manage the pain and stress of an injury.
Let’s break down what you need to know about medical bill coverage after a work-related injury.
Workers’ Compensation Insurance
In most cases, your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance is responsible for paying your medical bills related to a work injury. Pennsylvania law requires most employers to have workers’ compensation insurance that protects their employees in case of work-related injuries or illnesses.
What’s Covered?
Workers’ compensation should cover all reasonable and necessary medical treatments related to your work injury. This may include:
- Emergency room visits
- Doctor appointments
- Surgeries
- Medications
- Physical therapy
- Medical devices (like crutches or wheelchairs)
Unlike with regular health insurance, you don’t have to pay any deductibles or co-pays for these treatments.
Seeking Treatment
In Pennsylvania, your employer may provide a list of approved healthcare providers. For the first 90 days after your injury, you may be required to see a doctor from this list for your treatment to be covered. After 90 days, or if your employer didn’t have you sign acknowledgements of a panel list, or if your employer doesn’t have a panel list, you can choose your own doctor.
What If Your Claim Is Denied?
Sometimes, an employer or their workers’ comp insurer will deny an employee’s claim. If this happens, you might temporarily need to use your own health insurance to cover medical bills. However, don’t give up –an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you file an appeal after a denial and potentially get your medical bills covered retroactively.
Third-Party Claims
In some cases, a third party (someone other than your employer) may be responsible for your work-related injury. This can happen if you’re injured in a car accident while on the job, or if you’re hurt by a defective piece of equipment. In these situations, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against the responsible party in addition to your workers’ compensation claim.
The Role of Your Attorney
Dealing with workers’ compensation can be frustrating, especially when it comes to ensuring all your medical bills are properly covered. That’s where an experienced attorney comes in. At Stine & Associates, P.C., we can help you:
- Understand your rights under Pennsylvania workers’ compensation law
- Pursue all the medical benefits you’re entitled to
- Appeal denied claims or disputed medical treatments
- Identify potential third-party claims
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
Remember, your focus should be on recovery, not worrying about medical bills. If you’re struggling with getting your work-related medical expenses covered, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Contact Stine & Associates, P.C., today for a free consultation. Remember, we charge no fees unless we secure benefits or compensation for you. Let us fight for the medical care and compensation you deserve after a work-related injury.