Yes — in many cases, your employer is still responsible for covering the cost if you choose to see another doctor after a work-related injury. But under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, there are important rules you need to follow to make sure your care is covered.
At The Illinois Hammer Injury Law Firm, we help injured workers understand these rules so they can get the treatment they need — without unexpected medical bills.
Your Right to Choose Medical Providers
In Illinois, you generally have the right to choose up to two doctors, plus any specialists or additional providers those doctors refer you to. This is known as the “two-doctor rule.” If your treatment stays within those choices and is related to your work injury, your employer — or their workers’ compensation insurance — must pay 100% of the medical costs. That includes office visits, diagnostic testing, physical therapy, surgery, and more.
What Happens If Your Employer Has a Preferred Provider Program (PPP)?
Some employers participate in a Preferred Provider Program (PPP) — a state-approved network of medical providers for workers’ comp cases. If your employer has a PPP in place, different rules apply:
- Your first doctor must come from the PPP list, unless you formally opt out in writing.
- If you opt out, you’re allowed to choose one doctor outside the network, along with any referrals that provider makes.
- Emergency care is always covered — even if the provider is outside the PPP network or not one of your official choices.
These rules exist to control costs, but they can also make it harder to access care from providers you trust if you’re not careful.
Why It’s Important to Follow the Rules
If you see a third doctor or seek treatment outside your approved choices — and don’t follow the required process — your employer may not be legally obligated to pay for that care. That could leave you stuck with costly bills.
Unfortunately, many injured workers don’t realize this until after the fact. That’s why it’s so important to understand your options and get legal guidance before switching doctors or starting new treatment.
How We Help Protect Your Medical Rights
At The Illinois Hammer Injury Law Firm, we help you make informed medical decisions that are both medically appropriate and legally protected. Our attorneys can:
- Explain your rights under the two-doctor rule and PPP guidelines
- Help you opt out of the PPP correctly if needed
- Make sure your treatment stays within the boundaries of what the law covers
- Push back if the insurance company refuses to pay for necessary care
Talk to Us Before You Make a Move
If you’re considering changing doctors or starting new treatment after a work injury, let’s talk first. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, help you avoid costly mistakes, and ensure your care is covered under Illinois law — so you can focus on getting better, not worrying about the bills.
