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Choosing a Workers’ Compensation Doctor

About This Study

This study is being conducted by OM to establish national benchmarks for excellence in workers’ compensation care. The results will help define and strengthen the standards used in the WorkCompReady™ Certification and the upcoming Center of Excellence (COE) designation for practices treating injured workers. The purpose of this study is to identify the key criteria that reflect the highest level of administrative performance, communication, and patient care within workers’ compensation. The feedback collected will be used to ensure these designations continue to represent the most qualified and trusted physicians and practices nationwide.

Instructions
Please check off the number that best reflects your opinion (1 = Not Important, 10 = Extremely Important). You may also add comments where applicable.

Authorization & Scheduling

Timely authorization for initial visits and follow-up care
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Clear and accurate authorization forms (avoiding delays or confusion)
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Authorization for physical therapy, imaging, and diagnostics without unnecessary delays
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Flexibility from payors to schedule urgent/emergent cases quickly
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Communication & Coordination

Direct, consistent communication with case managers and adjusters
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Employers providing clear job descriptions and availability of light-duty work
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Availability of case managers/adjusters for quick calls when urgent issues arise
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Respect for physician’s medical judgment and treatment plan
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Documentation & Compliance

Employers providing accurate incident reports and accident details
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Adjusters providing claim details and patient coverage information upfront
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Consistent follow-through on required paperwork from employer/adjuster side
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Support for Patient Care

Case managers facilitating return-to-work by coordinating modified duty options
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Employers supporting work restrictions as prescribed (vs. ignoring or misinterpreting restrictions)
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Adjusters authorizing appropriate medical specialists when needed (e.g., ortho, pain, neuro)
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Case managers ensuring smooth coordination of care (PT, imaging, DME, etc.)
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Professionalism & Relationship

Respectful, professional interactions with physicians and staff
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Employers, case managers, and adjusters attending in-services or educational sessions when invited
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Willingness of employers and carriers to work directly with the office to resolve barriers
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Final Written Response

Disclaimer: If there are any additional factors we should consider, please include them in your response. OM's goal is to ensure physicians and their offices have the right support from all parties to deliver the highest standard of care for injured workers.

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