Can I Choose My Own Doctor for Workers’ Comp in California?

One of the biggest frustrations for injured workers is being told they have to see the insurance company’s doctor. The good news: California law gives you more control over your medical care than you might think. Here’s how doctor selection works in workers’ comp.

The First 30 Days: MPN Rules

For the first 30 days after your injury, your treatment must be within the insurance company’s Medical Provider Network (MPN). An MPN is a group of pre-approved doctors and specialists.

• Your employer should provide you with a list of MPN doctors
• You can choose any doctor within the MPN
• If you’re not happy with the first doctor, you can switch to another MPN doctor

After 30 Days: Switch to Your Own Doctor

After the initial 30-day period, you can switch to your own doctor — even if they’re outside the MPN — as long as they agree to treat you within the workers’ comp system.

Pre-Designation: The Best Protection

If you pre-designated your personal physician before your injury, you can see them from day one. To pre-designate:

• You must have health insurance at the time of injury
• Your doctor must agree in writing before the injury occurs
• The pre-designation form must be on file with your employer

QME and AME: Independent Medical Evaluations

If there’s a dispute about your medical condition, an independent evaluator will examine you:

• QME (Qualified Medical Evaluator) — assigned by the DWC medical unit if you don’t have a lawyer
• AME (Agreed Medical Evaluator) — chosen by agreement between your attorney and the insurance company

Having a workers’ comp attorney means you can participate in selecting your AME, which often leads to more favorable evaluations.

What If the Insurance Company’s Doctor Downplays My Injury?

This happens frequently. Insurance company doctors have a financial incentive to minimize your condition. If you believe a doctor is not accurately reporting your symptoms or limitations:

• Get a second opinion from your own doctor
• Request an AME through your attorney
• Document all your symptoms in writing

Get a Lawyer Who Fights for Your Medical Rights

Attorney Eman Yazdchi — a Certified Specialist with 20+ years of experience — knows how to challenge biased medical opinions and get you the treatment you need. Call Yazdchi Law today for a free consultation.