I sent the message below to my two local state representatives. I urge you do to the same. This piece of legislation has the chance to affect anyone that is employed in the state of PA and falls under the worker’s compensation act (which is everyone, unless maybe you’re an Amish worker). A change in the law under this bill is strictly there for cost containment and puts employees injured on the job at a large disadvantage. It requires people to treat with the employer’s choice of doctors for the first 6 months after an injury vs. 3 months.

Why is this a problem? I have seen plenty of patients that unfortunately received unsatisfactory care from clinics that cater to work injuries. Specifically, it is their job to work with the employers to reduce costs associated with injuries. Being the case, they are there to help the employer, and not necessarily the employee.

I understand why this law is in place and think there needs to be some method of cost containment for the more common mild injuries. However, I do not agree with doubling the amount of time required. If after three months of being treated by “company doctors” someone is not better or at least happy with their care, they should reserve the right to treat with their own doctors and have it covered.

For those of you located near my office, you can contact your reps at the following websites:

Hon. Jerry Knowles, 124th district
Hon. Mike Tobash, 125th district

Thank you for taking the time to read this, contact your rep, and help protect YOUR rights!

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Dear Representative Knowles,

I would like to bring something to your attention. On May 23, 2011, the PA House of Representatives is expected to vote on HB 808, which extends the time period for “captive treatment with a corporate panel doctor” from 90 days to 180 days (6 months).

As a health care provider, this is very concerning to me. I understand the intent of the bill, but I also believe that the current law that requires a 90 day time period is reasonable to both the employee and to the employer.

Imagine that you are injured in an accident at work. For the first 90 days, you must go to the doctor of your employer’s choice if you want it covered under the worker’s compensation act. 90 days can be a long time, especially if you’re sent to one of the numerous clinics out there that has a business model around treating injured workers. Being the case, they are beholden to the employers and insurance companies, not the patient. Unfortunately, this means that many people receive substandard or inadequate care for the 90 days. For some injuries, this can be the difference between something that is taken care of properly and resolved, or something that becomes a permanent injury.

At 90 days this can be an issue. Imagine if they DOUBLE the time period to 180 days!

Please consider your vote on this matter carefully. I would be more than happy to discuss this with you in more detail if needed.

Thank you for your consideration on the matter.