What You Need to Know About Medical Benefits Under Ohio’s Workers’ Comp System

The workers’ compensation scheme in Ohio was designed to help employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. To qualify for benefits, you must prove that you were hurt while performing your job. If you have a valid claim, the law says you’re entitled to medical benefits that cover the cost of doctor’s visits, treatments, and other injury-related expenses.

The workers’ comp scheme allows employees to claim compensation without having to go through the expensive and lengthy process of litigation. With limited exceptions, it doesn’t matter who was responsible for your injuries. Furthermore, you don’t have to prove your employer was negligent in any way. However, many injured workers in Cincinnati find that they benefit greatly from hiring a Cincinnati workers’ comp lawyer. The process of getting benefits can be more complicated than it at first seems and you’ll want to ensure you get everything to which you’re entitled.

When to Seek Treatment

Even if your workplace injury or illness seems minor, you should seek prompt medical attention. Whether you fell or were exposed to toxic chemicals, you should see a doctor. Getting prompt treatment helps you in two ways. Firstly, it can help you to recover faster. Secondly, it helps to prove that your injury is related to your job. If you wait too late to seek treatment, your employer may challenge how you got your injuries. Never downplay your injuries or try to stick it out if you don’t feel well. This can affect your ability to claim benefits or reduce the amount you can get.

When you go to the doctor, be sure to tell the truth about your symptoms. Don’t exaggerate or leave out details. While imaging and tests can detect some conditions, doctors rely heavily on patients’ descriptions of their symptoms to reach other diagnoses. Even minor or fleeting pains or sensations can be important so don’t be afraid to mention them. As any Cincinnati worker’s compensation attorney will tell you, you may later discover that these issues are indicators of a serious problem. You should also avoid speculating about your injuries or saying you’re okay when you’re really not.

The Process of Getting Workers’ Compensation Medical Benefits

Workers’ compensation medical benefits cover both prescription drugs and medical treatment. When your claim is approved, the medical professionals who treated you must submit their bills to your employer’s managed care organization (MCO). After the MCO reviews the documents, the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) will pay them.

You will likely have to fill some prescriptions before your claim gets approved and you’ll have to foot the cost initially. However, you should be reimbursed when your claim is approved. If you have to get more medication after your claim is approved, you should notify the pharmacist that your prescription is covered by workers’ compensation. That way, the pharmacy will bill the MCO. You should avoid purchasing your medication using health insurance since co-payments can’t be reimbursed.

Why Hiring A Workers’ Comp Lawyer is Essential

You need to work with someone who understands the system and will help you secure the best possible outcome. While you will be assigned a caseworker by the BWC, that individual won’t be looking out for your interests. They probably won’t inform you of all the benefits you can get if you don’t ask. They also won’t assist you in appealing if your claim is denied.

When you have Cincinnati workers’ comp lawyer on your side, they’ll take care of all the legal and administrative issues. You won’t have to worry about if you’ll be able to pay your medical bills. You can simply focus on getting better and getting back to work. It’s important that you contact an attorney as soon as possible after your injury or diagnosis.

Call an Ohio Workers’ Comp Lawyer Today

If you want to ensure you get the compensation you deserve, contact our team today. We have years of experience in handling all kinds of workplace injuries and illnesses. Whether you’re dealing with broken bones, burns, or a repetitive strain injury, we can help. If you contact us early, we’ll ensure your claim is filed correctly and supported by evidence. If for some reason the claim is denied, we’ll help you to fight for what you deserve. You don’t have to go through the workers’ comp claim process on your own. Take care of yourself and your family while we handle everything else. Call us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you.