In Minnesota, the workers’ compensation claims process is described on the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry’s website. It breaks down into a few easy steps.
To start with, any employee who is injured on the job needs to notify their employer and seek medical attention if it’s needed. They should then report the injury to the supervisor as quickly as they can if they have not notified their employer. Keep in mind that you have only a short time to report your injury to your employer and pursue workers’ compensation. Failing to report the injury within the time allowed by law could mean that you would forfeit your ability to make a claim.
What happens after you report an injury?
After you report an injury, it’s time for your employer to fill out a First Report of Injury form. The claim is pushed through to the insurer, who then accepts or denies the claim.
What are the kinds of benefits that you can receive for workers’ compensation?
Some types of benefits you may be entitled to receive include:
- Wage-loss and monetary benefits
- Rehabilitation benefits
- Medical benefits
What do you need to do when you see your medical provider?
Upon an initial visit to the doctor for an injury, make sure you tell them that this injury happened on the job. If you go to a medical provider for a workplace injury more than once, you should bring:
- The name of your workers’ compensation insurance company, if known
- Your insurance claim number
- A list of the medications you take currently
- A list of the other health care providers who are treating you
- The fax number, phone number, name and address of the insurance claims adjuster and your employer
- Any questions or concerns you would like to speak with your doctor about
When you speak with your medical provider, you should ask how long it will take you to recover from your injuries. You can also ask for a copy of a Report of Work Ability, which describes the work you can or cannot do.
Once you’re receiving treatment, make sure you continue to have open communication with the insurance adjuster, your employer, your attorney and your medical team. Doing this will help you make the most of your claim while also helping move your treatment forward and to give you the best possible options for care and your recovery.