By the Law Firm of Brandt & Sherman

When you're injured on the job in Louisiana, one of the first concerns you might have is about your medical treatment. Specifically, many workers wonder if they have the right to choose their own doctor in a workers' compensation case. The answer is crucial, as it can significantly impact the quality of your medical care and the outcome of your workers' compensation claim.

Key Takeaways

• Louisiana law allows injured workers to choose their own treating doctor for workers’ compensation claims.
• Employers cannot force workers to use a company-selected clinic or physician.
• Your treating doctor plays a major role in determining treatment, work restrictions, and recovery time.
• Insurance companies may request independent medical exams, but these do not replace your doctor’s opinion.
• Legal help may be needed if treatment is delayed, denied, or challenged.

After a workplace injury, many workers worry about who will control their medical care. Your treating doctor plays a major role in diagnosing your injuries, recommending treatment, and determining how long you must remain out of work. Choosing the right physician is one of the most important decisions you will make during a workers’ compensation claim.

Louisiana law clearly outlines your rights when it comes to selecting a doctor. This guide explains how those rights work, what employers are allowed to do, and how to protect yourself if someone tries to interfere with your medical treatment.

Do I Have the Right to Choose My Own Doctor in Louisiana?

Yes. Louisiana workers have the right to choose their own treating physician in any medical specialty. Your employer cannot force you to treat with a specific clinic or “company doctor.”

You may choose your own doctor for:

• Orthopedic injuries
• Back and neck injuries
• Neurological conditions
• Pain management
• Primary care
• Physical therapy

For an overview of workplace injury rights and benefits, visit the firm’s Workers’ Compensation page.

Common Workplace Injuries That Require Specialist Care

Many work-related injuries affect the spine, nerves, and muscles. Conditions like herniated discs, nerve compression, and traumatic brain injuries often need specialized treatment. You can learn more about these types of injuries on the firm’s Brain & Spinal Cord Injuries page.

Slip-and-fall injuries at work are also common and may require orthopedic or neurological specialists. For more information about these types of cases, visit Premises Liability Injuries.

What Your Employer Can Require

Your employer or their insurance company may legally request:

• A second medical opinion (SMO)
• An independent medical examination (IME)
• Periodic updates on your medical progress

These exams do not replace your treating physician. Your doctor’s opinion is typically given more weight in disputes over treatment or work restrictions.

What Your Employer Cannot Do

Your employer cannot:

• Select your treating doctor for you
• Pressure you into using a preferred clinic
• Delay or deny treatment without medical justification
• Demand that you return to work before your doctor approves
• Block you from obtaining a second opinion

If your employer or the insurer tries to interfere with your medical care, it may be time to speak with an attorney.

Why Choosing the Right Doctor Matters

Your treating doctor determines:

• Your official diagnosis
• Whether surgery or advanced treatment is necessary
• How long recovery should take
• Your physical limitations or disability rating
• When it is safe to return to work

A doctor who frequently works with insurance companies may minimize your injury or limit treatment. Choosing your own trusted physician helps ensure your care focuses on recovery, not cost savings.

What Happens if the Insurance Company Disagrees?

Insurance companies often dispute:

• Surgery recommendations
• MRI and imaging orders
• Pain management or therapy
• Work restrictions
• Long-term disability

These disagreements go through Louisiana’s Medical Treatment Guidelines (MTG) process. If the insurer refuses to approve treatment, a judge can intervene.

Your treating doctor’s opinion often remains the most important evidence in your favor.

Steps to Take After a Workplace Injury

1. Report the injury immediately

Timely reporting protects your right to benefits.

2. Choose your own doctor

You are not required to begin treatment at your employer’s clinic.

3. Follow your treatment plan

Consistent care strengthens both your health and your claim.

4. Keep all records

Save medical documents, receipts, and communication with your employer and insurer.

5. Contact a lawyer if you face delays or interference

Legal help may be necessary when treatment is denied, delayed, or disputed.

When to Contact Brandt & Sherman

If your employer is pressuring you to use a certain clinic, refusing to approve treatment, or pushing you back to work too early, an attorney can step in to protect your rights.

Free Consultation With Brandt & Sherman Injury Lawyers

If you were injured at work and need help navigating medical treatment or workers’ compensation benefits, we are here to help. Reach out through our contact page to schedule a free consultation.