Handling the workers’ compensation claims process can be tricky, especially when you’re dealing with a nurse case manager. If you suffered an injury on the job in Minnesota, knowing what not to say to a nurse case manager is crucial for protecting your claim and right to workers’ comp benefits.
What Is a Nurse Case Manager in Workers’ Compensation?
A nurse case manager (NCM) is a healthcare professional assigned to your case by the workers’ compensation insurance company. Their role is to oversee your medical care, make sure you follow the treatment plan, and facilitate communication between the parties involved.
On paper, the nurse case manager’s job is to help injured workers receive proper medical treatment. But the reality is that their job is to minimize the cost of your injuries to the insurance company.
Why Is the NCM Calling Me?
If a nurse case manager calls you, it’s likely because your workers’ compensation claim involves medical treatment that the insurance company wants to monitor closely. They might want to discuss your medical condition, treatment plans, and progress.
They may want to help you schedule your appointments and provide other assistance. However, you should keep in mind who they actually work for. They’ll report back to the insurance company.
Do I Have to Talk to a Nurse Case Manager?
You do not legally have to speak with a nurse case manager, even if the insurance company assigns one to you. If you choose not to speak to the nurse case manager, they cannot interfere with your treatment.
While cooperating with a nurse case manager may seem beneficial, you should remain cautious. The insurance company may later use the information you provide to the nurse case manager against you in an effort to reduce your benefits.
If you feel pressured or uncertain about communicating with the nurse case manager, it’s best to consult a workers’ compensation attorney. They can help you with your workers’ compensation claim while protecting your rights.
Can the Nurse Case Manager Talk to My Doctor?
If you accept the assistance of the nurse case manager, they can talk to your doctor. They often do so to get updates on your treatment and recovery progress. However, you can take steps to control the flow of information.
First, you have the right to be present whenever your nurse case manager discusses your treatment with your doctor. This allows you to ensure the information the nurse case manager receives is accurate.
Second, you can decline to have the nurse case manager present during treatments or check-ups. Doing so will allow you to limit the information they receive.
What Not to Say to a Nurse Case Manager
If you choose to speak to the nurse case manager, there are a few things you should avoid saying to protect your claim:
- Don’t downplay your injuries: Never minimize your symptoms or pain. Saying you feel fine when you don’t can harm your claim. The insurance company may assume your injuries aren’t as serious as you initially claimed based on your statement.
- Avoid discussing unrelated issues: Keep the conversation focused on your injury and treatment. The nurse case manager may use personal details against you. These personal details could include any pre-existing conditions you mention.
- Do not speculate about your injury: Stick to the facts of your injury and treatment. Guessing or providing assumptions about your injury or recovery can create inconsistencies in your claim. The insurance company may also take your guesses as fact if doing so would benefit their bottom line.
- Avoid talking about work capabilities: Don’t make statements about your ability to work, even if you feel pressured. These comments can affect your benefits and may cut your treatment short. If you can return to work right away, that reduces the cost to the insurance company, which is what they want.
- Don’t agree to anything you don’t understand: Avoid agreeing to any changes in your treatment plan or to returning to work without first having your doctor explain the changes and why they are necessary.
Contact a Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Were you injured on the job in Minnesota? An experienced Minnesota workers’ compensation attorney can help protect your rights by instructing you on handling interactions with your nurse case manager. Check our results to know why you should trust us.
Call (612) 334-3444 or contact us online for a confidential consultation with one of the lawyers from our law firm. We’ll evaluate your claim, explain your options, and answer any questions you have about your case.
Related Posts:
What a Workers’ Compensation Records Request Reveals About You
What is an IME Workers Comp Medical Exam?