If you have suffered an injury on the job in South Carolina, you will have to get a medical examination. There are certain things to expect during your first doctor’s appointment after sustaining your work-related injury.
Importance of your first doctor’s appointment
Going to the doctor under any other circumstances is something you often take for granted. However, if you are seeing a doctor about a work-related injury, you must be completely honest and share all the details about your symptoms. Whether your employer has allowed you to see your own doctor, sent you to one of their choosing or the workers’ compensation insurer has chosen one for you, the situation is different.
If you are seeing a doctor chosen by your employer or the workers’ comp insurer, be careful about what you say. You should give them as much information about your injury as possible but avoid making any jokes.
What to expect at your appointment
During your first appointment with the doctor, you should expect to have to answer questions. The doctor will likely ask you about any prior injuries you’ve sustained and about preexisting conditions. Be honest and avoid exaggerating or downplaying your symptoms.
Tell the doctor about all your symptoms, even those that seem minor and not worth mentioning. Even something minor could later end up being something serious. Being completely honest about varying levels of severity could prevent a potential problem with the insurance company later.
The doctor may give you some job restrictions, which could impact the duties you are able to perform. For example, if you perform regular heavy lifting in your job, the restrictions might require you to limit your lifting to 10 or 20 pounds. You may also be given a prescription or medical supplies upon your first doctor appointment.
Be prepared for your doctor’s appointment. It might help your workers’ comp claim.