Often when we are speaking with potential clients about their job injury, the following questions is asked: Is the Company Nurse allowed to be present during my doctor visit?
Most people are not comfortable with a stranger sitting in with them during a medical evaluation, and get angry when this stranger interrupts them to tell the doctor something about how they are doing or what jobs you are able to do if the doctor would just release you to return to work.
So, is the company nurse allowed to be present with you during your doctor visit? No, they are not.
You have the right to ask them (politely) to wait outside while you are evaluated and discussing your injury with the doctor. The law allows the insurance company to have a nurse speak with the doctor about your treatment, but this can be done before or after you visit is over. While you are with the doctor, they should be listening to you and your concerns, not those of the insurance carrier.
By no means do I mean to infer that all Case Nurse Managers are predisposed to try to hurt your case. Just as with all other professions, there are some excellent Case Nurse Managers who work hard to help the injured worker, and there are others who care more about their client-which you are not. Never forget this simple fact. The Case Nurse works for the workers compensation insurance carrier; they are their client, not you.
If you were hurt at work and you have questions about your right to Alabama Workers’ Compensation benefits, don’t hesitate to contact and talk to one of the experienced Alabama Workers Compensation Lawyers at Powell and Denny today.
Powell and Denny: We Work When You Can’t