If you were involved in an accident at work, it is important that you know your rights and get the treatment that you need right away. Common workplace injuries include slips, trips, falls, overexertion, and exposure to dangerous materials or electrical injuries. Workplace injuries should be reported right away and you should seek medical treatment imme
iately. We know it can be difficult to deal with your pain and suffering, at Associated Medical Centers of Illinois, we are here to help you navigate your injury.
After your work injury, your employer may refer you to a doctor. It is important to know that at most companies you are not required to receive treatment from this doctorand you have the right to seek treatment from a physician of your choice.
AMCI has 6 convenient locations across the Chicagoland area that specialize in work injury-based care. Our dedicated team will evaluate your injuries and create a customized treatment plan, so you can fully recover. Our specialists provide comprehensive care for Workers’ Compensation patients. Communication is our top priority, and we will make sure you are informed about your care plan every step of the way. Before you begin treating, it is important that you understand your Workers’ Compensation rights in Illinois.
Workers’ Compensation in Chicago
Nearly every worker is protected under the Workers’ Compensation Act. These protections are in place to ensure you get treated fairly in the event of an injury. Workers’ Compensation is a form of insurance that provides wage replacement and medical benefits to employees. Some of these benefits include: medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation, disability, and death benefits. Although you are entitled to all of these benefits, there are often misconceptions that can discourage employees from pursuing their rights. Read our FAQ’s below to learn more about Workers’ Compensation
Frequently Asked Questions
#1) Am I suing my employer?
When you are injured at work, you may feel nervous to file a report. However, Workers’ Compensation prevents employers from retaliation, meaning you cannot get disciplined or fired for filing for Workers’ Compensation. It is important to know that you are not suing your employer, you are simply accessing the benefits that are a part of your employer’s insurance. Your employer is required to carry Workers’ Compensation insurance, so you will be protected in the instance of an injury.
#2 How much do I have to pay for medical expenses?
The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act outlines that your employer is responsible for 100% of your medical expenses related to your work injury. From your initial hospital visit to your long-term physical therapy, you should never have to pay for these medical expenses. Additionally, you do not have to have insurance authorization for your medical treatment.
#3 Do I have to use my employer’s medical provider?
No. While your employer may have a list of preferred providers most employees have the right to decline and select your own medical provider.Choosing your own medical provider does not disqualify you from any of your Workers’ Compensation benefits.
#4 What do I do if I feel my Workers’ Compensation is not being handled correctly?
If you do not feel like you are receiving adequate care or fair payments after filing for Workers’ Compensation, you have the right to seek representation. If you do not think your current medical provider is giving you proper treatment, you have the right to choose your own medical provider (see FAQ #3) Additionally, you have the right to seek legal representation to ensure you are receiving proper compensation for y
our work injury. A Workers’ Compensation lawyer can help you navigate your claim and ensure you receive the full extent of your benefits.
You do not have to face your work injury alone. Associated Medical Centers of Illinois is here for you, so you can be confident in your treatment plan and focus on your healing. If you have been injured at work or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us or schedule an appointment.