OWCP - DOL second opinion and referee doctors tutorials - Podcast #63

Navigating a Biased Second Opinion in Workers' Compensation Claims

If you're an injured worker whose workers' compensation claim has been accepted but now faces a second opinion examination that seems prejudiced or improperly conducted, you may be at risk of losing your benefits. This guide provides practical tips and remedies to protect your rights and ensure fair treatment when a second opinion physician’s findings appear influenced by a claims examiner aiming for a predetermined outcome.

Understanding the Situation

When a second opinion physician determines that your injury is not work-related, the claims examiner may issue a Notice of Intent to Terminate Compensation. This notice typically gives you 30 days before your benefits end. The claims examiner often supports this decision with a Memorandum to the Director, outlining the reasons for denying your claim. This memorandum is a document that you never see but has a lot of prejudicial influence on the second opinion's determinations. There is a lot of these types of memorandums that hurt injured workers looking for fairness and help but instead receive a predetermined prejudiced outcome that is negotiated in these type of memorandum that often hurt the injured worker claimant. 

If the second opinion feels biased or the examination was not conducted appropriately, you have options to challenge the findings and protect your benefits. Acting quickly and strategically is critical.

Steps to Take

1. Request Key Documents

To build a strong case, you need access to the documents influencing the decision. Take these actions immediately:

• Obtain the Memorandum to the Director: Request a copy of this document from the claims examiner. It details why your claim is being denied and is essential for your treating physician to understand the basis of the denial.
• Request the Second Opinion Doctor’s Report: Ask the claims examiner to send a copy of the second opinion physician’s report to your treating physician. This ensures your doctor has the full context of the findings to address. for more information click on the transcript: 

Dr. Taylor’s contact information is: [e-mail] 

If you need a medical provider or assistance with an OWCP /  DOL claim in Tamps, Pensacola Florida. south Mississippi or Daphne Alabama    you can make an appointment to see Dr. Taylor, or Dr. Sullivan   at the clinic at  FWC Medical Centers. To make a consultation with Dr. Taylor  call the clinic at 813-215-4356 or go  to our website at  https://fedcompconsultants.com/

For responses email Dr. Taylor at [e-mail]

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