When an injury occurs on the job, you are usually covered under the workers’ compensation insurance policy paid for by your employer. You are also typically required to visit a physician selected by the insurance company to assess your condition and get treatment. But what if you don’t agree with the doctor’s assessment or treatment plan? Can you go somewhere else for a second opinion? In New Jersey, the answer is almost always “No.” You can request it, but are not “entitled” to get it. The insurance company has the right to decide whether or not a second opinion is warranted.

There are two common situations that prompt patients to seek a second opinion in workers’ comp claims:

• When the doctor says you no longer need treatment and you don’t agree with him/her; and,
• When the doctor recommends surgery or an invasive procedure and you want to be sure it is the best option.

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Continue Reading Think You Are Entitled to a Second Opinion Under NJ Workers’ Comp? Think Again