Does Workers Comp Pay for Time Off for Doctor’s Appointments?

Being injured at work is a difficult and stressful experience. With all the medical appointments, physical therapy, and time needed to recover, it’s hard to keep track of everything you need to do.

One question that arises after a workplace injury is whether or not workers’ compensation pays for time off for doctor’s appointments. Here’s what you need to know.

What is Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation is designed to help people who are injured while working. This includes:

Medical bills
Lost wages
Other expenses related to the injury

In general, you can expect that workers’ comp will pay for time off for doctor’s appointments if the appointment is related to a work injury.

Eligibility for payment for time off for doctor’s appointments requires a valid workers’ compensation claim. This means that you’ve been injured while on the job and have filed a claim with the relevant agency. If your claim is approved, you’ll be eligible for benefits, including time off for doctor’s appointments.

What’s Needed for Approval?

While workers’ comp covers time off for doctor’s appointments, there are some things to keep in mind.

First, you must get approval from your employer before taking time off for medical appointments. They’re likely to approve time off, but you might need some flexibility if there are staffing issues. Remember, though, they cannot deny your need for medical treatment.

Additionally, you’ll need to follow the procedures and requirements set out by your employer and the workers’ comp agency.

Finally, you may need to provide documentation to support your claim for time off. This usually involves getting a note from the doctor.

Planning and Budgeting

Another thing to keep in mind is that while workers’ comp will cover time off for medical appointments related to your work injury, you may not be paid your full salary. In general, workers’ comp will pay a percentage of your salary while you are off work, and this may be less than your regular salary. This is why it’s important to plan ahead and budget accordingly.

Workers’ comp does pay for time off for doctor’s appointments related to a work injury. However, you must have a valid claim, get approval from your employer, and follow all relevant procedures and requirements. If you have any questions or concerns about workers’ comp and time off for medical appointments, speak to your employer or a workers’ comp attorney for guidance.

For more information or to schedule a consultation to discuss your options if you’ve been injured, contact Shugarman & Mehring at 410.783.4200 or toll-free at 888.342.7200.