Workers’ Compensation Attorneys for Short-Term/Lifetime Future Medical Care for Professional Athletes in CA

Workers' compensation covers the cost of medical care for work-related injuries or illnesses, regardless of whether they're short-term or long-term.

Workers’ Compensation for Short-Term Medical Care for Pro Athletes

If you get hurt while playing or taking part in team-sanctioned activities, workers' compensation for short-term medical care should cover the expenses associated with urgent care, doctor visits, x-rays, physical therapy, and any medications prescribed by an authorized healthcare provider. There may be a designated network of doctors you must see initially, but ultimately, workers' compensation aims to ensure you receive the necessary medical treatment to recover from your work injury without facing financial burden.

Workers’ Comp for Lifetime Future Medical Care for Pro Athletes

Workers' compensation for lifetime future medical care is designed to provide ongoing financial support for necessary medical treatment stemming from a work injury that could potentially last for the rest of your life. This applies if your condition is expected to require ongoing care, medication, or rehabilitation. However, it's important to note that "lifetime" care isn't unlimited. Treatments must be deemed medically necessary and follow established guidelines. You may have some choice in selecting doctors, but there might be restrictions on the treatment plan itself. This benefit ensures you can access the medical care you need to manage your work injury over the long term, fostering your recovery and well-being.

Medical Coverage for Work-Related Injuries

• All-Encompassing Care: Workers' compensation covers all "reasonable and necessary" medical treatment for injuries sustained during practices, games, training, or sanctioned team activities. This includes:
  • Doctor visits and consultations with specialists
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation
  • Surgery and other medical procedures
  • Medication and pain management

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Care

• Short-Term Needs: Workers' compensation covers medical expenses directly related to healing from your initial injury and getting you back to playing as soon as possible.
• Long-Term/Future Needs: California recognizes the potential for professional sports injuries to have lasting consequences. If your injury is likely to require ongoing medical care, such as pain management or future surgeries, workers' compensation can cover those expenses as well. However, proving the necessity of future care may require strong medical documentation.

What You Need to Know

• Authorization: You typically need prior authorization from the insurance company before receiving certain medical treatments. We can help you navigate this process.
• Medical Provider Network: The insurance company may have a designated network of healthcare providers. You have the right to choose your own doctor within reasonable geographic limitations, but out-of-network care may require additional steps.
• Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI): Benefits typically continue until you reach MMI, a point where your condition is unlikely to improve further. However, in some cases, you may be eligible for ongoing medical care if properly documented.