Yes — in most cases, Illinois law gives you the right to choose your own doctor or hospital when seeking treatment for a work-related injury. But there are important rules and exceptions you need to be aware of, especially if your employer has a Preferred Provider Program (PPP) in place.
At The Illinois Hammer Injury Law Firm, we help injured workers across the state understand and protect their medical rights under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act.
Your Right to Medical Choice in Illinois
Under state law, your employer is required to cover 100% of your reasonable and necessary medical treatment for a job-related injury. This includes:
- Doctor visits
- Hospital stays
- Diagnostic tests (X-rays, MRIs, etc.)
- Surgeries
- Physical therapy
- Specialist referrals
In most situations, you’re allowed to choose up to two doctors on your own — plus any additional providers they refer you to for further care or diagnostics.
This flexibility is meant to ensure that you receive care from providers you trust and who prioritize your health and recovery, not just your quick return to work.
What If Your Employer Has a Preferred Provider Program (PPP)?
If your employer has established a PPP, the rules change slightly:
- Your first choice of provider must come from the PPP network, unless you opt out in writing.
- If you choose to opt out, you are then limited to one non-PPP doctor of your choosing, plus any referrals made by that provider.
- Once you’ve used your allowed choices, switching providers again can become more difficult — and may not be covered.
This makes it critical to understand your rights and make informed choices early in the process. Many workers unknowingly use up one of their selections by visiting a walk-in clinic or employer-chosen doctor after the injury — which can limit their future care options.
Why Your Choice of Doctor Matters
Not all providers are the same — especially when they’re affiliated with your employer or the insurance company. In our experience, doctors connected to employer networks may:
- Downplay the severity of your injuries
- Push for an early return to work
- Delay or deny referrals to specialists
Choosing your own doctor ensures you’re working with someone focused on your full recovery, not just minimizing costs or meeting company timelines.
Let Us Help You Protect Your Medical Rights
At The Illinois Hammer Injury Law Firm, we guide injured workers through the complexities of Illinois workers’ compensation law — including making the right medical decisions from day one. We’ll help you:
- Understand your employer’s PPP (if one exists)
- Make informed choices about your providers
- Avoid mistakes that could limit your treatment
- Fight for the full care and compensation you deserve
Free Consultation Available
If you’ve been injured at work and are unsure about your medical rights, don’t go it alone. Contact us for a free consultation, and let us help you get the care and support you need to heal — on your terms.
