Workers’ compensation can cover various medical costs generated by a work injury. Employees can receive trauma care or medication through workers’ compensation. Their benefits can help pay for physical therapy as they regain lost functional capabilities after healing.
Typically, workers’ compensation can cover any expenses associated with immediate medical needs. There is no cost to the patient as long as the care is medically necessary and related to the condition caused by an employee’s work.
An employee who requires emergency surgery to stabilize their condition after an on-the-job injury can count on workers’ compensation to cover their costs. If a physician recommends non-emergency surgery during a workers’ compensation claim, does workers’ compensation cover the cost of non-emergency procedures?
Benefits can cover surgical expenses
Surgery is frequently part of the treatment plan for injuries ranging from fractures to injured joints. Both employees and employers may have the option of requesting a second opinion regarding the necessity of non-emergency surgical procedures as part of a treatment plan.
If a doctor deems the procedure necessary for the patient’s recovery, then workers’ compensation should cover the cost of the operation. The employee should not have to worry about meeting a deductible or covering any of the costs associated with the procedure or their aftercare.
Reviewing an incident report and a treatment plan with an attorney can be helpful for those preparing a workers’ compensation claim. Guidance during the claims process can take pressure off injured workers. Those who question their treatment plans and who require expensive medical care may require guidance and legal insight when seeking the benefits they require.
