If you’ve been hurt on the job in Louisiana, your first priority should be getting the medical care you need. But once the workers’ compensation process begins, you might wonder, do I have the right to see my own doctor—or does my employer choose for me? In 2025, Louisiana law still gives injured workers an important but often misunderstood right to choose their own treating physician. This decision can have a major impact on the quality of your care, the documentation supporting your claim, and ultimately, the compensation you receive.
At Wanko Workers’ Comp Lawyers, we help injured workers across Louisiana navigate the claims process, protect their rights, and get the care they deserve. Here's what you need to know about choosing a doctor after a work injury.
Yes, You Have the Right to Choose Your Own Doctor
Louisiana workers’ compensation law allows injured employees to select one treating physician per specialty, without needing prior approval from their employer or the insurance company. This means you do not have to accept the doctor chosen by your employer or their insurer. You have the right to:
- Select your own primary treating physician
- Choose specialists as needed (e.g., orthopedic surgeon, neurologist)
- Continue treatment with your chosen physician as long as it is medically necessary
However, your employer’s workers’ comp insurer may still have input in authorizing or disputing medical procedures, especially surgeries or long-term treatments. That's why proper documentation and legal advocacy are critical.
Visit our workers' compensation page to learn more about how we can help you protect your rights and your recovery.
Why Choosing Your Own Doctor Matters
It’s no secret that doctors referred by your employer’s insurer may not always have your best interest in mind. While not all employer-selected doctors are biased, they may:
- Minimize your injuries
- Rush your return to work
- Downplay the need for certain treatments
When you choose your own physician—especially one experienced in workers’ comp—you’re more likely to:
- Get thorough, patient-focused care
- Receive proper medical documentation that supports your claim
- Avoid unfair pressure to return before you're ready
Remember: the success of your workers’ comp case often depends on the strength and clarity of your medical records. That’s why your doctor’s experience and independence are so important.
Steps to Take When Choosing Your Own Doctor
To exercise your right to choose your physician, follow these steps:
1. Notify Your Employer Promptly
After a workplace injury, you should report it to your supervisor as soon as possible and request to see your chosen doctor. While you can seek emergency care right away, choosing your ongoing physician early in the process helps ensure your benefits aren’t delayed.
2. Select a Qualified Provider
Your chosen doctor must be properly licensed and willing to treat under Louisiana’s workers’ compensation rules. Ask if they are familiar with the workers’ comp process and ready to submit the required forms and records.
3. Submit Form LWC-WC-1010 for Treatment Approval
If your doctor recommends non-emergency treatment (like surgery, physical therapy, or diagnostics), they must submit a Form 1010 to the insurance company requesting approval. If treatment is denied, you have the right to appeal.
4. Keep Records of Everything
Retain copies of all communications with your doctor, employer, and insurance carrier. This includes medical records, bills, letters, and emails. These documents can be critical if a dispute arises over care or compensation.
When Might the Insurance Company Intervene?
While you have the right to select your physician, the workers’ comp insurance company can still request:
- An Independent Medical Examination (IME): A one-time exam by a doctor of their choosing
- Utilization review: A challenge to the necessity of a certain treatment or test
These actions are often used to dispute claims or deny coverage. If this happens, it’s in your best interest to have a workers’ comp attorney on your side who can fight for your treatment and appeal any unjust denials.
Can You Change Doctors Later?
Yes, but with restrictions. Louisiana law allows you to change doctors, but once you’ve selected a provider in a particular specialty, you must either:
- Get approval from the insurance company, or
- Obtain authorization from a workers’ comp judge if the insurer refuses
That’s why it’s so important to make the right choice from the beginning. A wrong move could result in treatment delays, added costs, or disputes over your claim’s legitimacy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Injured workers often make decisions based on fear or pressure, which can compromise their case. Be sure to avoid:
- Letting your employer pick your doctor without question
- Failing to confirm your doctor is workers’ comp experienced
- Accepting quick settlements without understanding your medical future
At Wanko Workers' Comp Lawyers, we’ve seen too many workers walk away with less than they deserve because they weren’t informed of their rights—especially when it came to medical choice.
We Help You Take Back Control
Getting hurt at work is stressful enough. You shouldn’t have to battle your employer or their insurance company just to see a doctor you trust. At Wanko Workers’ Comp Lawyers, we’ve dedicated our practice to helping injured workers throughout Louisiana access the treatment and compensation they’re entitled to under the law. We can:
- Help you choose the right doctor
- Challenge denied treatment authorizations
- Protect your rights if the insurer pressures you to see their doctor
- Fight for every dollar and benefit you’re owed
If you’re unsure about your rights—or think your medical treatment is being restricted—contact us today. We’re here to help you get the care you need from the doctor you trust.
