Q: Had a neck claim denied and shoulder claim accepted but after 4 months shoulder doctor says mri was normal for shoulder.
Shoulder Dr referred me to Cervical spine Dr and they have been treating neck does this mean it’s been accepted?
A:
No. Not accepted unless you have a letter from the insurance adjuster that says it is an accepted claim.
They don't want to accept the claim because it will entitle you to industrial disability (a higher benefit). Iowa workers' compensation has become a game of one denial after another. The doctors picked by the employer's and their insurers are nothing but whores handing out opinions that will get them more business.
To the doctor you are not the customer, you are just the patient. And in Iowa it is not the injured worker who directs the business. So, at least in their mind, you don't count. It has been this way since July 1, 2017 when the Republican controlled legislature made major changes to the workers' compensation program. The shoulder is "accepted" because to them it will cost them less.
Is there a ruptured disc in your neck?
You need a lawyer.
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