Can I See My Own Doctor in a Workers’ Compensation Claim?

September 5, 2025

The Workers’ Compensation system can feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to recover from a workplace injury at the same time. One of the most common concerns injured workers have is whether they can see their personal physician for treatment. The answer in Maryland is yes, but with some important limitations.

What Does Maryland Law Say About Choosing a Doctor?

Maryland Workers’ Compensation law generally allows injured workers to choose their own treating physician. Many employees prefer this option if they already have a doctor they trust, especially one familiar with their medical history or preexisting conditions.

However, there are key things to keep in mind:

• Employer Control: In Maryland, your employer or their insurance carrier cannot force you to see a specific doctor for ongoing treatment.
• Independent Medical Examination (IME): The insurer can require you to attend an IME with a doctor of their choice, but this is for evaluation purposes only—not treatment.
• Coverage Disputes: While you can select your own doctor, the insurance company may deny payment for care it believes is unnecessary, excessive, or unrelated to your work injury.

How Do I Request to See My Own Doctor?

If you want to treat with your own physician after a workplace injury in Maryland, take these steps:

1. Report the injury to your employer immediately.
2. Confirm your doctor accepts Workers’ Compensation patients and understands the claim process.
3. Notify your employer and their insurance carrier that you wish to see your chosen physician.
4. Keep records of all communications regarding your treatment and claim.

It’s best to make your choice early in the process. Switching providers later can be more difficult, especially if you’ve already started treatment with another doctor.

What if the Insurance Company Denies My Choice?

Insurance companies sometimes dispute treatment decisions or deny coverage. If this happens:

• Ask for a written explanation of the denial.
• Share that information with a Workers’ Compensation attorney.
• If necessary, file a dispute with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC) to protect your right to proper care.

What if I Need Specialized Care?

Some injuries require specialized treatment, such as orthopedic surgery or neurological care. If your primary treating physician recommends a referral, that referral should be covered under Workers’ Compensation as long as it is medically reasonable and related to your injury. If the insurer resists, legal support may be needed to challenge the denial.

Protecting Your Right to Medical Care with LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton

At LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton, we have defended the rights of injured workers across Maryland for more than 35 years. If you have questions about selecting your own doctor or need help with a claim denial, call our Baltimore Workers’ Compensation lawyers at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online for a free consultation.

We have offices in Baltimore and Owings Mills, allowing us to represent clients in Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.