Do you know what to do to seek medical treatment after an accident? Of course, visiting the emergency room is the correct answer if it’s critical or life-threatening. But for those who don’t need emergency care, there are several things to consider before visiting the doctor’s office. Here are the things you should consider when choosing a doctor after an accident.

The Challenges with Primary Care Doctors

It is normal for people who are sick or hurt to go to their primary care doctor. Our experience has been that primary care doctors do not want to handle injuries associated with car accidents. There are several reasons for this. In Florida, a complicated billing system involves insurance known as personal injury protection for the first $10,000 of medical care after a car accident. The reality is that most primary care doctors do not have the staff and infrastructure to appropriately bill under that system. Also, many primary care doctors do not want to be involved with aspects of litigation, such as testifying in depositions or trials.  

Referrals for Care

If you trust your doctor and have a good relationship with them, your first step is to ask them who they recommend. Your doctor may have a network of referrals they can suggest for other physicians who specialize in accidental injuries and who know how to handle the system. That would always be our first suggestion on where to turn.

Choosing a Doctor Who Understands Insurance

You want to see a specialist after a personal injury for two primary reasons. The first reason is due to their ability to work the insurance system. They’ll have previous experience and know how to properly code personal injury cases to ensure that your treatment is accurate and covered. You also want a doctor who has extensive experience with treating injury-related patients. Often, injuries require a doctor to recognize signs that a patient may need to be referred to other providers for things like MRIs, pain management, or surgical consultation. Medical providers who have dedicated their professional lives to caring for injured people have the experience and know-how to get you the appropriate treatment. 

Talk to A Lawyer

We always encourage people to contact us immediately after the incident. In all cases, time is of the essence. But you also want to seek medical attention as soon as possible. In years past, you could talk about medical choices with your attorney, and those were protected communications because of a Florida Supreme Court case, Worley v. Central Fla. Young Men’s Christian Ass’n, Inc., SC15-1086). However, recent changes to Florida Law by the politicians in Tallahassee have attempted to destroy this portion of attorney-client privilege. While legal challenges to this encroachment are sure to occur, it is essential to remember that it is possible your communications with your lawyer about medical choices could become discoverable and public.

Do you want to know more about getting medical care after an accident?

Call Glassman and Zissimopulos and our team of dedicated attorneys today. (352) 505-4515 or Toll-Free at (844) 787-2543. When you call, you will be able to speak with a lawyer. This is our commitment to you.