Occupational medicine providers are those who are familiar with and
regularly process workers compensation or employer-related medical
needs. Individuals who work for a business may be entitled to receive
compensation for injuries or illnesses that occur on the job. However,
it is essential that the provider of that medical care know that a
worker's compensation claim is to be made. There are various legal steps
necessary to do so. Even in situations where an employer requires
medical services for employees, having a specialized provider is
critical.
Businesses Needing Service
Today,
it is becoming more prevalent than ever for occupational medicine
providers to work with employers one-on-one. For example, some insurance
companies reduce liability costs to the employer if the employer
requires drug testing randomly for its employees. To make this process
effective and fast, many employers are working directly with these
professional providers to streamline the process. The employee comes in,
provides the proper samples, and is back to work. The results go to the
employer and the employee. This eliminates the risk that inaccurate
results are passed to the employer.
Workers Compensation Claims
Perhaps
the most common reason for going to such a provider, though, is for
workers compensation injuries and illnesses. The employer of any
business in most states is required to carry a special type of insurance
called workers compensation, or workers comp for short. This plan
provides payment for medical costs incurred by the employee because of
working. It could include falls, burns, and even death in some cases.
However,
to make such a claim, the employee must first provide information to
the employer about the incident, which is then documented. Then, the
employee must visit a medical provider that takes workers compensation
claims. Many facilities do. Then, the documentation of the incident and
all billing will move from the medical provider to the proper insurance
company. The employee does not have to worry about those costs.
Other Uses
There
are many other uses of occupational medicine providers. This includes
urgent care, pre-employment screening, executive physicals, such as for
insurance providers, health and wellness education provides,
immunizations for travel-related employment and medical surveillance
examinations. When you need a provider for this type of service, ensure
you work with one that is specifically capable of providing expert level
care for your business.