Getting Medical Treatment

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Getting Medical Treatment	in Spanish

Get first aid.
	Many falls, cuts and sprains can become serious injuries if they are not treated right away. If it’s a minor injury, get first aid at your workplace.
Did you know? In Washington, all employers are required to have a first-aid kit at the workplace.

See a doctor if needed.
	If you are injured at work and need treatment, go to the emergency room or doctor of your choice and say you were injured at work. The doctor will file the workers’ compensation claim for you.
Questions workers have: How do I find the right doctor? Many injured workers do not have a regular doctor. If this is you, do your research. Ask contacts in your community for recommendations. Make sure your doctor is qualified to treat your injury and is familiar with the workers' compensation system. Go to the American Medical Association's web site (www.ama-assn.org) to search for a doctor or to the Washington State Medical Association's web site (www.wsma.org) for consumer advice. You can get help Finding a Doctor near you. Not satisfied with your care? You have the right to change doctors or to seek a second opinion. May I choose my doctor or seek a second opinion? Yes. You may choose any doctor who is qualified to treat your injury. They include: medical, osteopathic, chiropractic, naturopathic and podiatric, physicians, dentists, optometrists and Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners. You also may get a second medical opinion if your claim manager approves it. How do I file a workers' compensation claim? You must first get treatment from a medical doctor, who fills out a Report of Industrial Injury or Occupational Disease and files your claim with L&I. (Note: If you work for a self-insured employer, your doctor submits Physician’s Initial Report.) How will I know if I’m covered? If you were hurt at a specific time and place where you work, you should be covered, though there are exceptions. Occupational diseases — specific conditions that result from certain types of work over time — also may be covered. What if I don't think the injury is my employer's fault? Washington is a no-fault state, so L&I will cover a claim for a workplace injury regardless of who is at fault. What if I live or move out of Washington State? Washington workers' compensation benefits do not change if you live outside Washington State. The right to receive treatment, time loss, vocational rehabilitation, permanent disability and other benefits remains intact. However, your responsibilities also continue. If you do not cooperate with these responsibilities your benefits may stop. You must: Have an attending doctor manage your treatment and provide reports to L&I regarding your continued eligibility for benefits. Notify L&I in writing if your address or phone number changes. Cooperate in your treatment and return to work efforts. Notify L&I immediately if you return to any type of work, including self‑employment. Cooperate with vocational rehabilitation activities. Attend L&I arranged independent medical examinations.
Did you know? If you are injured on the job, you are not required to hire an attorney to help you file your claim or work with your claim manager.

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