Your First Workers’ Comp Doctor Visit: What to Expect and What to Say

1605 N. Kingshighway, Suite 307, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701

Ph: (573) 335-6388

Getting hurt at work is stressful enough, but your first workers’ comp doctor visit can feel even more overwhelming. You might wonder:

✔ Will they believe I’m really hurt?
✔ What should I say (or NOT say)?
✔ Will I get the treatment I need?

In Missouri, your employer (or their insurance company) chooses the doctor you see for your workers’ comp claim. This means the doctor works for them, not you, and their report can determine whether you receive benefits.

Let’s break down what to expect at your first visit and how to handle it like a pro.

Step 1: Know Your Rights Before the Appointment

Before your first visit, it’s important to understand how Missouri’s workers’ comp system works:

✔ Your employer picks the doctor (except in emergencies).
✔ Workers’ comp covers all necessary treatment, but you must follow the doctor’s plan.
✔ The doctor’s report can make or break your claim.

🚨 Big Warning: The insurance company’s goal is to pay as little as possible—which means the doctor may downplay your injury or push you back to work too soon.

Step 2: What to Bring to the Appointment

Your doctor will need key information to assess your injury. Bring:

✔ Your injury report (a copy of what you gave your employer)
✔ Any medical records (if you already saw another doctor)
✔ A list of symptoms (pain level, mobility issues, etc.)
✔ A timeline of the injury (how and when it happened)

Step 3: What the Doctor Will Ask You

Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your injury. The doctor will ask:

✔ How did the injury happen? (Give a clear and consistent story.)
✔ What symptoms are you experiencing? (Be specific—pain, swelling, numbness, limited movement, etc.)
✔ Have you had similar injuries before? (Answer honestly, but don’t let them use an old injury against you.)
✔ What job duties can you still perform? (Don’t exaggerate, but also don’t underplay your limitations.)

💡 Pro Tip: Be honest but never say you’re “feeling fine” or “getting better” unless you truly are. Phrases like that can be used to deny your claim.

Step 4: What Tests & Exams You Might Undergo

To evaluate your condition, the doctor may perform:

✔ Physical examination – Checking range of motion, swelling, and pain points.
✔ X-rays or MRIs – If a broken bone or internal injury is suspected.
✔ Neurological tests – If nerve damage is a concern (for tingling or numbness).

🚨 Warning: If the doctor rushes through the exam or ignores your symptoms, document it! You may need a second opinion later.

Step 5: What NOT to Say During the Visit

What you say can be used against you, so avoid:

❌ “It’s not that bad.” (They might say you don’t need treatment.)
❌ “I had this injury before.” (They could blame a pre-existing condition.)
❌ “I can still do my job fine.” (They might clear you to return too soon.)
❌ “I was distracted and fell.” (They could argue you were at fault.)

💡 Stick to the facts and be clear about your pain and limitations.

Step 6: Understanding Your Treatment Plan

After the exam, the doctor will recommend a treatment plan, which may include:

✔ Medication – Pain relievers or anti-inflammatories.
✔ Physical therapy – To regain strength and mobility.
✔ Work restrictions – Limited lifting, no standing for long periods, etc.
✔ Surgery (if needed) – For severe cases like torn ligaments or fractures.

🚨 Your employer MUST follow these restrictions! If they pressure you to do more than what the doctor allows, you have legal options.

Step 7: What Happens After the Visit?

After your appointment, the doctor submits a report to the insurance company.

✔ Best-case scenario: Your claim is approved, and you receive medical care + wage benefits.
✔ Worst-case scenario: The doctor downplays your injury, and your benefits are denied.

💡 If you disagree with the doctor’s report, you can request a second opinion. You may need a workers’ comp attorney to help fight for fair treatment.

What If the Doctor Says You Can Return to Work Too Soon?

Some workers’ comp doctors push employees back to work before they’re ready. If this happens:

✔ Do NOT ignore your pain. If you can’t physically do the job, tell your employer in writing.
✔ Request a second opinion. (A lawyer can help with this.)
✔ Call an attorney if you feel pressured.

Final Thoughts: Your Doctor’s Visit is Key to Your Case

Your first workers’ comp doctor visit can make or break your case. Be prepared, be honest, and document everything.

📌 Injured on the job? If you need help fighting a denied claim or unfair treatment, contact a Missouri workers’ comp lawyer today!

Post Author

Nick Adkins

Attorney at Law and Workers' Comp Expert

Nick has represented Workers’ Compensation Employees since 2013, and he practices out of the Cape Girardeau and Farmington locations. There is nothing more important to Nick than doing a good job for his clients.