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New NY workers compensation treatment guidelines published

Posted on Aug 25, 2010

New guidelines that affect workers with knee, shoulder, neck or back injuries have been published by the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board.

The guidelines were updated to improve the quality and speed of medical care that injured workers receive, eliminate or reduce harmful treatments, and cut down on legal and friction costs. They’re also intended to be a cost-saving method, as some medical treatments labeled as “ineffective” or “unnecessary” (and therefore a waste of money) will not be allowed.

To cut down on the time it takes to get treatment, injured workers who need a treatment or test that is listed in the guidelines will be able to get it right away – no waiting for authorization. These pre-authorized treatments should both save money and get medical care to injured workers faster.

This is all well and good, but there is bound to be disagreement about medical treatment that is considered “ineffective” or “unnecessary”. Whenever a centralized group of experts effectively makes medical decisions for injured workers like this, it takes away from their doctor’s right to do what he thinks is best for his patient.

If you find yourself unable to get the medical care you need after an on-the-job injury, there is hope. Our skilled and compassionate New York workplace accident attorneys have dealt with a wide variety of workers’ comp cases over the years, and we can help you, too. Please call us right away, even if you just want to ask a few questions – we want to help.