If you have been injured while at work, the first thing on your mind is most likely seeking medical attention. Getting prompt treatment for your injury is important for a number of reasons. First and foremost is your physical health and well being. You want to make sure your injuries are addressed and that you receive the treatment you need to get better. Getting prompt treatment is also important because it helps to document the injury and verify that it was work-related. 
This will help you in initiating a workers’ compensation claim and will make it more difficult for the employer or the insurance company to deny your claim. However, different states have different rules about what treatment is covered under workers’ compensation, so it is important to understand how these laws effect your East Providence workers’ compensation lawsuit. Below are some examples of the types of treatments that are typically covered as well as examples of medical treatments that are generally not covered by workers’ compensation in Rhode Island. If you have been injured at work, contact one of our experienced East Providence workers’ compensation lawyers today.
What Types of Treatments are Usually Covered by Workers’ Compensation?
In order for the medical attention you receive for a work-related injury to be covered by workers’ compensation insurance, certain requirements must be met. The treatment must be provided in connection with the injury you suffered while at work. Generally, tests needed to diagnose your injury such as x-rays, MRI scans, and blood tests are covered. Ongoing treatment recommended by your doctor to treat your injury, such as physical therapy, surgery, and medications are generally also covered.
It is important to note that certain workers’ compensation insurers require that you see certain “approved providers” or get permission to see a non-approved provider. In Rhode Island, you can chose the first provider you see, but you may need permission to change providers or see a specialist. If your injury requires immediate attention, you are allowed to go to an emergency room, and the costs will be covered. It is also important to check with your employer and verify what is required for your treatment to be covered.
What Types of Treatments are Not Usually Covered by Workers’ Compensation?
While many medical services are covered under workers’ compensation, there are certain instances where they are not. Experimental treatments, for instance, will usually not be paid for by workers’ compensation. Also, if you are required to see a provider on the list of approved providers, but you chose to see another provider, the treatment may not be covered. Visits to a specialists’ office may require prior approval, and thus they will not be covered if you do not get prior approval. Finally, if your claim is denied, your medical costs will not be paid for by workers’ compensation. If you are faced with a denial of your workers’ compensation claim, it is a good idea to talk to an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer who can get you the benefits you are entitled to.
Contact an Experienced East Providence Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
If you have been injured while at work in the East Providence area, contact the experienced East Providence workers’ compensation lawyers of d’Oliveira and Associates located at 2540 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence, RI. You may be entitled to collect workers’ compensation benefits for lost wages, medical bills and possibly receive a lump sum settlement, among other benefits. No fees are received unless you win your case. For a free (no obligation) case evaluation, call us at 1-401-431-1990 or toll free at 1-800-992-6878. You may also fill out our contact form online.
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Paul d’Oliveira
Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.
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