Panel of Physicians: A list of doctors that the employer provides to injured workers. The panel must include at least three doctors. The injured worker has to pick a physician from the panel. If the employer does not provide a panel, then the employee may see a doctor of his or her choice. The treating doctor can refer the patient to other doctors. Once the patient’s treatment starts, the worker has to stay with that physician unless he or she gets approval from the Commission to switch doctors. This is known as the Authorized Treating Physician. (ATP) An experienced Virginia Worker’s Compensation doctors can explain when patients can seek approval to make a switch.
Sometimes a panel can also come into play when the ATP makes a referral to a specialist. The insurance company may offer a panel comprised of three specialists.
It is important to have the panel reviewed by a competent workers compensation attorney. More often than not, the panel will have at least one or two doctors who are defense-oriented physicians who will be biased against you.
Note that not every case requires a panel. For instance, if your injuries required immediate surgery, then typically the surgeon is going to become your ATP by default and no panel is required at that point.
Party: The parties are the people and company formally part of the worker’s compensation claim. The parties are generally the injured worker, the employer, the insurance carrier, the claim administrators, and the attorneys of record. Family members are generally not considered parties. Health care providers may also be parties – as to the cost of their services.
Hurt at Work? Call Virginia Injured Worker’s Attorney Joe Miller
Joe Miller Esq. has been helping injured workers for over 25 years. He understands the full range of workers’ compensation issues. This includes making sure employees get to choose the best doctors that the state law allows. Call attorney Joe Miller to discuss your case at 888-694-1671 and ask for Joe Miller, or email jmiller@joemillerinjurylaw.com.
