Lansing Workers’ Comp Doctors: Do You Have a Say in Who Treats You?

If you were hurt at work in Lansing, you might be surprised to learn that you do not automatically get to choose your own doctor. Under Michigan workers’ compensation law, your employer and their insurance company decide where you receive treatment during the early stages of your claim.

That control does not last forever.

Knowing your Lansing workers’ comp medical rights is key to making sure you get proper care and avoid doctors who may not have your best interests in mind. In this post, we will explain how long you must see the assigned doctor, what the 28-day rule means, and how to change providers if you are not getting the care you need.

📅 Michigan’s 28-Day Rule: What It Means for Lansing Workers

Under Michigan law, your employer and their workers’ comp insurance company control your medical treatment for the first 28 days after your work-related injury. This rule allows them to direct you to an “approved” medical provider or clinic, often one they have a relationship with.

During this initial period:

Many Lansing workers do not realize this rule exists, which leads to frustration when they try to see their own doctor and find out the visit is not reimbursed.

Once the 28 days are up, you may be eligible to switch providers but there are rules for how to do it properly, and the insurance company may push back.

🏥 Employer-Selected Doctors vs. Your Right to Switch

During the first 28 days after your work injury, your employer and their workers’ comp insurance carrier have the right to choose your medical provider. This often means you will be sent to a company doctor, an occupational health clinic, or a provider known for keeping costs low.

Many Lansing workers feel stuck with a doctor who seems more focused on the insurance company than on their recovery. These providers may:

After that initial period, you may be allowed to switch to a doctor of your choice, as long as you notify the insurance company and follow proper procedure. Choosing your own doctor can make a major difference in how you are treated, what documentation is created, and whether your claim is taken seriously.

❌ What Happens If the Workers’ Comp Doctor Disagrees With You?

If the doctor assigned by your employer says you are fine to work, denies the need for treatment, or downplays your pain, your case can take a serious hit. These medical opinions often carry weight with the insurance company and can be used to justify denying benefits or cutting off payments entirely.

This happens more often than most people expect.

Some signs that your workers’ comp doctor is working against you include:

You are not required to agree with their opinion and you have the right to challenge it. In many cases, your next step is to request a second opinion or prepare for what is called an independent medical exam, where a different doctor will review your case.

🚩 Why Independent Medical Exams Are Not Always Fair

Do not be misled by the name. An independent medical exam is rarely independent. In reality, it is a one-time evaluation performed by a doctor who is chosen and paid by the insurance company.

We have seen countless Lansing clients attend IMEs expecting fairness, only to receive reports that downplay or outright deny their injuries. These reports are then used to cut off wage loss benefits or deny further treatment. In one case, a client’s benefits were terminated just days after the IME despite ongoing pain and a clear diagnosis from his treating doctor.

If you are scheduled for an IME, you should treat it seriously. What you say and how the doctor interprets your condition can directly affect your benefits.

🔄 How to Change Doctors or Get a Second Opinion in Lansing

If you are past the 28-day mark and still receiving care from the employer’s doctor, you may be eligible to choose your own provider. However, it is important to follow the correct process so your treatment remains covered.

Here is how to change doctors the right way:

Some insurers may still push back or try to limit your options. If that happens, do not assume you are stuck. In many cases, you can still get a second opinion, request a hearing, or involve legal counsel to help move your care in the right direction.

Seeing the right doctor can directly impact the outcome of your claim, your recovery, and your potential settlement.

🧑‍⚖️ When to Involve a Lansing Workers’ Comp Attorney

If you are unsure about your medical rights or feel like the system is working against you, it may be time to speak with an experienced attorney. Many Lansing workers wait too long to get legal help, only to find out that a biased medical report or missed deadline hurt their case.

Here are signs you should consider calling a lawyer:

Getting your medical treatment on the right track is one of the most important parts of your workers’ comp case. If you need legal help navigating doctor issues or delays, speak with a Lansing workers’ comp attorney who knows how to protect your rights and push your claim forward.

❓FAQ: Workers’ Comp Doctors and Medical Rights in Lansing