Question

[FlWC]

Hi you guys! I have a question...I just got a call from my attorney saying that the defense attorney would like to set up mediation and settle...??? I haven't even seen the neurologist yet! Is this common? I said NO, not until my appointment.

[Still in Limbo]

Without a Whole lot More Info., I don't think Anyone could really answer Your question. Just My Opinion, a quickie Settlement before Medical would be an Adjusters Dream, and You were VERY Wise to turn it down! Good Job!! If they could get You to Settle quick, before any Medical Evidence from the Neuro. is introduced, Your Case would be worth a lot Less, and they would Win in the Long Run! Good Luck, and I Personally think You made a Good Move!!

[FlWC]

Sorry...I should have added this.... New at this....

Hi all....I live in Florida and was injured 6/06. My diagnosis is as follows:
Focal disc protrusion in a central to right lateral location at the level L5-S1 with mass effect upon the thecal sac and the S1 nerve root on the right. Disc material extends into the right lateral recess at this level.
(Bulging Disc at L5-S1)

So far I have had 4 lumbar epidurals, P/T, radio frequency and lots of pills....Sad
I went in to see my primary (who also does my pain management), and he suggested and wrote a prescription for Methadone (for pain). I felt that was way over the top!!! I went in again on 9/14 and asked for a referral to see another doctor, he agreed and referred me to a Nero. surgeon. All along workers comp has been very nasty...so I recently hired any atty. Any idea how long a referral will take??? The pain is unbelievable even now and getting worse!!!

Thank you for the reply!

[bethsha211]

I live in Texas and wanted to change doctors.It took me right at a month before getting my new doctor approved.Good luck and hope it all turns out fine.
Bethsha211

[1171]

now that you've gotten an atty you have to be prepared to settle--that's what they do.
If you are not in the mood to settle make it clear up front otherwise you'll be going in different directions.

[kate]

Once you retain an attorney, most of the time that puts everything into settlement mode. As 1171 said, make sure the attorney knows you don't want to settle until you've had the medical treatment you need.

In Florida, the law states:
440-13(3)(d) A carrier must respond, by telephone or in writing, to a request for authorization from an authorized health care provider by the close of the third business day after receipt of the request. A carrier who fails to respond to a written request for authorization for referral for medical treatment by the close of the third business day after receipt of the request consents to the medical necessity for such treatment. All such requests must be made to the carrier. Notice to the carrier does not include notice to the employer.

That being said, did the doctor request the referral to the neurosurgeon in writing and when did the carrier (insurance company) receive it?

Even if the adjuster is authorizing the referral timely (which only means that they have told the referring doctor that they will set the appointment), in some areas of Florida, it is hard to get anyone in to a neurosurgeon in under 4-6 weeks. Also some will not even see you if you are not a surgical candidate. Some request all your medical reports first to review before they will even consider setting up an appointment. I know that doesn't help your pain but you asked about how long a referral would take.

Again, make sure you discuss everything with your attorney so that you ae comfortable with any decisions you make. Best of Luck