Getting an injury at work–even a minor one–can lead to lost wages, chronic pain, and reduced quality of life. Navigating the workers' compensation system to access benefits like physical therapy can be complex and frustrating.
You can find high-quality rehabilitative care to recover and return to your normal routine with some guidance.
Physical therapy is essential in overcoming workplace injuries through personalized treatment plans that target pain relief, restore function, and facilitate a safe return to work. This guide will walk you through the steps to get workers' compensation physical therapy benefits after an on-the-job accident.
Report your injury and file a claim.
If you are injured at work, you must report it promptly to your employer and file a claim for workers' compensation benefits. In New Jersey, you must notify your employer within 90 days of the accident.
When reporting, provide as many details as possible about how, when, and where the injury happened. Be sure to get any witnesses names and keep copies of accident reports created by managers or supervisors.
Then, file a formal Claim Petition through the New Jersey Division of Workers' Compensation and include information such as:
Your average weekly wages
Injuries sustained
Doctors you have seen
Missed time from work due to the accident
Keep thorough records of medical expenses, work absences, and how the injury impacts your daily life.
Get evaluated by an authorized doctor.
For a workers' compensation claim to be accepted, a doctor authorized within the state's network but examine the filer. Be sure to see a doctor as soon as possible after reporting your injury, as prompt medical attention demonstrates the seriousness of your case.
During the evaluation, the doctor will:
Assess your injuries
Determine work restrictions or modifications
Make recommendations for treatment, including physical therapy
Getting evaluated and treated by network doctors ensures that the claim covers costs.
Receive a prescription for physical therapy.
If the authorized physician recommends physical therapy, they will provide you with a prescription detailing the type of PT needed and the duration.
For example, you may be prescribed twice-weekly sessions for eight weeks to help recover your range of motion after an ankle sprain.
Make sure the prescription is as specific as possible about the areas of your body requiring therapy, and ask the doctor to submit it directly to your workers' compensation insurance carrier.
Select a physical therapy provider.
Choosing the right physical therapist is critical to receiving effective care. Reviews from past patients can also offer insight into the quality and convenience of nearby PT clinics.
Consider factors such as:
Locations close to your home or work
Available appointment times
Expertise in treating your type of injury
Therapists who make you feel comfortable
Connect with your prospective physical therapist beforehand to discuss your needs and priorities. Once you select a provider, their office can help you submit documentation and schedule initial appointments seamlessly.
Complete your physical therapy.
You must complete the entire course of prescribed physical therapy sessions to heal and recover function after your workplace injury.
Consistently attend all scheduled appointments and fully participate in the customized treatment plan created for you. Perform home exercises in between visits to maintain your progress.
Your workers' compensation claim for physical therapy may approve additional sessions based on your weekly improvement. Finishing therapy will help you meet recovery goals, transition back to your job more smoothly, and stay healthier long-term after an on-the-job accident.
If you have been injured on the job and have workers' compensation physical therapy, contact Physical Therapy Doctor NJ.
Going through the workers' compensation process can be challenging. But taking the time to file a claim to access your entitled benefits like physical therapy will pave the way toward physical recovery and an accelerated return to work and your routine.
