As you struggle with pain, uncertainty, and financial stress after a Staten Island or New York City ferry accident, you may feel like you have no control over your medical care. But you have the legal right to choose your own doctor, and it's a right worth fighting for.
Seeing a physician you trust can help you get the personalized care you need to recover from your injuries and build a strong case for compensation. In this article, we'll explore the key reasons why selecting your own doctor is crucial after a ferry accident and how the experienced maritime injury lawyers at Hofmann & Schweitzer can support you every step of the way.
You Have the Right to Choose Your Own Doctor
Under maritime law, injured ferry workers have the right to select their own physician for medical treatment.
It's essential to see a doctor you trust. The ferry company's recommended physician may prioritize the company's financial concerns over your health. However, if you choose your health care provider, they may give you an independent, unbiased assessment of your injuries and medical treatment needs.
Your doctor can provide personalized care based on your unique medical history and circumstances. They can take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Additionally, selecting your own physician allows you to continue treatment with a doctor you're already comfortable with. This familiarity can ease the stress of navigating medical care after a Staten Island or New York City ferry accident.
Your Doctor Can Provide Crucial Evidence for Your Claim
Thorough medical documentation is essential for proving how badly you were hurt and how your injuries should be valued. Your chosen physician can provide detailed records of your diagnosis, treatment plan, and prognosis. This evidence helps establish the link between the ferry accident and your injuries.
If necessary, your doctor can also testify about how your injuries impact your ability to work and carry out daily activities. This testimony is crucial for calculating damages like lost wages, future medical expenses, and pain and suffering. Comprehensive medical evidence can strengthen your compensation claim.
Being honest with your doctor about your symptoms, limitations, and preexisting conditions is essential. Attempting to exaggerate or downplay your injuries can undermine your credibility and damage your claim. Your physician is there to help you recover, not judge you, so provide them with all the information they need to offer the best possible care.
Seeing Your Own Doctor Helps Ensure Continuity of Care
Consistent, high-quality medical care is essential for your recovery after a Staten Island or New York City ferry accident. When you see your own doctor, you benefit from an established patient-provider relationship. Your physician already understands your medical history and can tailor your treatment plan accordingly.
Your chosen doctor can monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed. They can also help you manage any chronic pain or long-term disabilities resulting from your injuries. This ongoing support can be invaluable as you work to rebuild your life after a ferry accident.
Your Doctor Can Refer You to Specialists as Needed
Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may need care from various medical specialists. For example, a neck injury might require treatment from an orthopedist, neurologist, and physical therapist. Your primary care doctor can coordinate your care and refer you to the appropriate experts.
These specialist referrals not only ensure you receive comprehensive treatment but also strengthen your claim. Each specialist can provide additional medical evidence and expert testimony to support your case.
Coordinated care among your doctors and specialists is essential for achieving the best possible outcome. Your primary physician can serve as the central point of contact, ensuring all your providers work together to help you recover. They can also help you make informed decisions about your treatment options and address any concerns you may have along the way.
