Oct
27
Do I have to fill out a medical history form for the worker’s compensation insurance company?
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Question: I injured myself on the job and was out sick for only 3 days. I’m still going to a physical therapist on my own time.
The insurance company that handles my employer’s worker’s comp sent me a medical records release form, asking me to sign it. They also sent a 4-page medical history questionaire, asking me to fill it out and sign it.
I probably will sign the medical record’s release but I’m not happy about filling out the medical history form.
2 Comments
October 27th, 2009 at 6:39 am
I actually would be more concerned about the medical records release form. Depending on the language, this type of document can give WC the authority to order *all* of your medical records including those pertaining to mental health treatment, alcohol and drug rehabilitation, STD testing…WC does not normally order this information unless they feel it has some sort of bearing on your current work-related injury, but you never know.
I would try talking to your WC representative and explaining that you feel your medical history is irrelevant in this case; therefore, you do not feel comfortable signing the release or providing your medical history. You have a particularly good argument if there is an identifiable event that caused your work-related injury-for instance, if you were in a bad accident in a company car and are now having neck/back pain.
October 27th, 2009 at 7:02 am
They want to know if this could possibly be related to a prior injury. You need to fill it out. If you don’t, they can deny your claim for not cooperating.