Because almost all of us have to work within our lifetime, and because that work-span can often exceed 40 years, it is beneficial to know what to do if you should have an on-the-job injury. We may go years without an injury happening to us, but when it does, it is in the best interest not only for ourselves, but also our family to be somewhat informed.
The first important thing to know is that you should always notify your supervisor immediately after an injury occurs. Along with this, make sure that you fill out the proper paperwork. Although you have sixty days to fill out your workers compensation paperwork, it is always good to do it immediately. If not, over time the circumstances surrounding your injury may become more vague thus increasing the chance that you may not get all of the benefits that you are entitled to. Along with this, even though you may believe that what occurred was quite minor, conditions often can and do change. A sprain may worsen overnight, or, a cut may become infected or any number of conditions may arise.
Secondly, seek out a provider, or encourage your employer to offer you a provider highly skilled in occupational medicine. Providers in occupational medicine can vary greatly. Often, providers can range from a mid-level, all the way up to a board certified and residency trained occupational medicine physician. Think of it like this, would you go to an optometrist for a toothache? Of course not, therefore you should try (and you have the right) to see an Occupational Medicine physician for your work-related injury. The reasons for this are numerous, but the most important is that they are the most skilled in identifying what your condition is and how to treat it. In most cases you will feel better, much faster!
Finally, when choosing a qualified provider, take a look at where they work. Are they a part of a multi-care specialty group? This is extremely important because often we may need other forms of specialists for second opinions or referrals. At Saltzer Medical Group we not only have a board certified and residency trained occupational physician (Dr. Howard Shoemaker), but we also offer Orthopedics, Ophthalmology and rehab services, just to name a few specialties. When your providers are a part of a multi-specialty group, communication between providers about you and your condition becomes much easier and thorough which can only benefit the person who is most important, you.
