Today’s post comes from guest author Leonard Jernigan from The Jernigan Law Firm.

Previously, I shared a post with some tips for workers’ compensation attorneys on how to deal with difficult doctors. In this follow-up post, I’ll share a few more ideas on how to get down to the truth of the matter when the doctor on your case is tough to work with.

(8)     Explain case procedure and why you are there.

Unfortunately, I had the experience of walking into a deposition once and the first question from the physician was “What’s going on here and what’s this got to do with me?”  Just prior to a deposition is not the time to be answering this question.  Some physicians have never had their depositions taken before and they are unnerved at the prospect.  Explain the process and explain the necessity for medical testimony.

(9)     Ease tensions.

Behind every physician-patient relationship there is the potential for a medical negligence claim. Ease that fear by letting the doctor know that the client is pleased with the care of the doctor (if indeed that is true).  She may have reviewed the chart and seen something that concerns her, so reassurance of this nature is vital.  If you are aware of a potential medical negligence claim, choose your words carefully. I can assure you she will.  You should not misrepresent anything concerning this issue.

(10)   Know the medicine. 

Some of us think doctors keep up with all the latest articles and studies concerning relevant medical areas.  The truth of the matter is that HMO’s, PPO’s and other managed care organizations barely pay them for seeing patients and the last time I checked “reading medical journals” was not under the pay provision of the contract.  Therefore, understand and Continue reading →

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Today’s post comes from guest author Leonard Jernigan from The Jernigan Law Firm.

A doctor’s opinion is crucial to every workers’ compensation claim.  Most doctors give honest and rational opinions. As we all know, however, there are some physicians who have a different agenda and either do not take the time to properly evaluate a patient or they intentionally downplay the potential seriousness of the injury.  For attorneys working on a workers’ compensation case, the following steps may help in the search for the truth.

(1)     Check the doctor’s credentials.

It is a strange but true fact that some experts have falsified their curriculum vitae.  If a physician has lied about his qualifications, his expert opinion just went out the window.  One way to verify credentials is to check the American Medical Association’s web page.   Select “Doctor Finder” and then follow the instructions until you get to “Find a Physician” and type in the name, address and zip code.  If you are seeking a specialist, a doctor certification can be checked by phone with the AMA.  For medical doctors call (800) 776-2378.  For osteopathic doctors call (800) 621-1773, ext. 7445.

(2)     Check disciplinary records. 

According to the Federation of State Medical Boards 4,432 disciplinary actions were taken against 3,880 physicians in 1996.  There are approximately 650,000 licensed physicians in the United States.  The Federation is responsible for promoting high standards for licensure and practice, and serves as the primary center for collecting, monitoring and reviewing actions taken against physicians. (A full report can be obtained by calling (817) 868-4000.  The report is also available on their web site.  Sidney Wolfe, a physician who is director of the Public Citizens Health Research Group, a consumer watchdog organization, has analyzed this document and his report can be obtained by calling (202) 588-1000.  A list of “Questionable Doctors” can also be obtained from Public Citizen for each state.

(3)     Communicate, communicate, communicate.

It is important to find out as much as you can about the physician involved in your case.  See if he is listed on the internet.  If he has written any articles, see what the focus is.  Ask other physicians, nurses, hospital employees and others in the community about this person.  Now, with this information in hand, schedule an appointment to talk with the doctor.  Try not to schedule it during his lunch break, or while he is seeing patients.  You want his undivided attention and you will not get it if he is thinking about some medical crisis sitting in the next room.

(4)     Build a relationship. 

Lawyers who specialize in workers’ compensation are likely to see the same physician Continue reading →

Prior results do not guarantee outcomes.
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