Can I Choose My Own Doctor for Workers’ Comp in Nevada?
Injured at Work? Your Doctor Choice Matters
If you’ve suffered a work-related injury in Reno or anywhere in Nevada, one of the first questions you might ask is whether you can choose a doctor for workers’ comp in Nevada. That question isn’t just valid—it’s critical. After all, the doctor who treats you doesn’t just manage your recovery; they also create records that directly affect your benefits and the outcome of your claim.
Therefore, understanding your medical rights early on can make a significant difference in your workers’ comp case.
How Nevada Handles Doctor Selection in Workers’ Comp Cases
In most cases, your employer or their insurance company chooses the initial doctor. Under Nevada law, they must select a provider from the state-approved Panel of Treating Physicians and Chiropractors. These medical professionals are authorized to treat injured workers under the workers’ comp system.
However, that doesn’t mean you’re stuck. Fortunately, Nevada law gives you the right to change doctors, as long as you follow the correct procedure.
Specifically, you must request a new doctor within 90 days of the injury and choose someone else from the same approved list.
Source: Nevada DIR FAQ on Workers’ Compensation
Why Your Doctor Choice Directly Affects Your Case
Your workers’ comp doctor influences much more than just your physical health. In fact, their medical reports can determine:
- How long you receive treatment
- Whether you’re approved for disability benefits
- When (and if) you return to work
- The strength of your legal claim
If your doctor favors the insurance company over your recovery, your case could suffer. Fortunately, you don’t have to accept this. By taking control of your care, you protect both your health and your legal outcome.
For this reason, many injured workers choose to speak with a lawyer before they choose a doctor for workers’ comp in Nevada. Doing so ensures they understand their rights and make the best possible decision for their case.
How to Change Your Workers’ Comp Doctor in Nevada
If you’re unhappy with your doctor—or if you believe they’re not acting in your best interest—take action as soon as possible. Here’s what to do:
- Act promptly. You must request the change within 90 days of your injury.
- Choose strategically. Your new doctor must come from the state’s approved list.
- Submit a written request. Send your request to your claims adjuster or the insurance provider.
A skilled Reno workers’ comp attorney can help you navigate this process smoothly and make sure no one delays or denies your rights.
Moreover, research shows this decision matters. According to the National Institutes of Health, injured workers who couldn’t choose their doctors reported lower satisfaction and worse care outcomes.
Source: NIH Study on Workers’ Comp Medical Care Satisfaction
Red Flags to Watch for in Your Workers’ Comp Doctor
Although not every doctor creates problems, you should stay alert for warning signs. If your doctor:
- Rushes appointments
- Dismisses your pain or symptoms
- Avoids referrals to specialists
- Pushes you back to work too soon
- Submits reports that don’t reflect your actual condition
…it may be time to switch. Rather than wait for your condition to worsen, take action now to protect your rights and recovery.
Don’t Let the System Choose Your Outcome
It’s easy to feel powerless in the Nevada workers’ comp system. After all, employers and insurers often act quickly, while injured workers feel stuck. But here’s the good news: you do have legal rights, and you can assert control over your medical care.
By choosing the right doctor—or switching when necessary—you take a critical step toward healing and fair compensation. If you’re still unsure how to choose a doctor for workers’ comp in Nevada, don’t go it alone. A legal team can help you make the most informed choice.
Need Help Changing Your Doctor? We’re Here for You.
If you feel like your current doctor isn’t listening or helping—or worse, hurting your claim—you don’t have to go through this alone. Our team helps injured workers in Reno every day, and we can help you too.
Nevada Workers’ Compensation Support with Jay Short
Struggling with a workers’ compensation claim or an unhelpful doctor? Jay Short, Attorney at Law, specializes in workers’ comp cases, helping injured workers in Reno secure the compensation they deserve. Whether you need assistance reopening a claim or switching to a doctor who supports your recovery, our dedicated team is here for you.
Contact us today for a free consultation at (775) 786-2006, available 24/7, or reach out online. Let’s ensure your doctor and claim work for you, not against you.