Short Answer: You can’t pick any doctor you want in a GA WC case; you must choose from your employer’s panel of physicians, with one allowed change within that list.
Longer Answer: After a workplace injury, one of the first concerns employees have is whether they can pick their own doctor. Many injured workers seek advice from an Atlanta WC lawyer to better understand their rights and treatment options. Medical treatment doesn’t just determine recovery it also directly impacts the outcome of a workers’ compensation case.
In Georgia, the rules differ from many other states. While South Carolina allows the employer to pick the doctor, Georgia’s system revolves around a panel of physicians. That means you usually cannot see just any doctor you choose, but you do have some say in the process. This blog explains how Georgia’s rules work, what rights employees have, and what steps to take if you want to change doctors during your workers’ comp claim.
The Panel of Physicians
Georgia law requires most employers to post a panel of physicians, usually containing at least six doctors. This list must include:
- One orthopedic surgeon
- At least one minority doctor (if available locally)
- No more than two industrial clinics
If you are injured at work, you must choose your treating doctor from this panel in order for the treatment to be covered. Unlike South Carolina, where the employer selects the doctor, Georgia gives the employee the right to pick one provider from the employer’s approved list.
What Happens if You See Your Own Doctor?
If you visit your personal physician without going through the panel process, the workers’ compensation insurance company may refuse to pay the bills. That means you could be responsible for the cost of treatment, even though the injury happened on the job.
However, just like in South Carolina cases, your personal doctor’s notes may still serve as evidence if a dispute arises over diagnosis, work restrictions, or long-term disability.
Emergency Situations
Georgia law makes an exception for emergencies. If your injury requires immediate care, you can go to the nearest emergency room. Emergency responders will not stop to check if the doctor is on the employer’s list. This treatment will usually be covered, but follow-up care must come from a doctor on the panel.
Changing Doctors in Georgia
Workers sometimes become unhappy with the first doctor they chose. Georgia law allows you to make one change of physician within the panel without needing special approval. After that, additional changes require the permission of the State Board of Workers’ Compensation.
If there is no valid panel posted or if your employer does not comply with posting requirements you may have greater freedom to select your own physician.
Why the Panel Matters
Medical care under workers’ comp is not just about treatment. It affects nearly every part of your case:
- Diagnosis: Determines if your injury is officially work-related.
- Treatment plan: Dictates whether you receive surgery, therapy, or medication.
- Work status: Impacts whether you return on light duty or remain out of work.
- Impairment rating: Affects the amount of permanent disability benefits you may receive.
If you cannot pick your own doctor freely, understanding the panel system ensures you make the best available choice.
Oversight and Disputes
The Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation oversees disputes about medical care. If you believe you are not receiving proper treatment, you can file a motion or request a hearing. The Board also has authority to order an independent medical examination in some cases.
Common Concerns
“What if my employer doesn’t have a panel posted?”
If the employer fails to post a valid panel, you may have the right to choose your own physician.
“What if I don’t like my doctor?”
You are allowed one free change to another doctor on the panel. After that, you need Board approval.
“Can I go straight to a specialist?”
Yes, if the panel includes a specialist. If not, your chosen doctor can refer you to one within the system.
Broader Context
The rules in Georgia reflect a balance between employer oversight and employee rights. While you cannot simply go to any doctor, you do have more choice than in some states.
This control over medical care is vital, especially as distracted driving, high-speed crash injuries, and fatal incidents in workplaces and on roads remind us of how important accurate medical documentation is. From Caribe Drive accidents in Georgia to reports handled by South Carolina law enforcement, the common thread is that medical treatment records shape both benefits and accountability.
Agencies like the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) or even the GBI Crime Lab may occasionally become involved in catastrophic work-related fatalities, just as the Virginia State Police or the Richmond Hill Police Department manage investigations in their jurisdictions. Each relies on proper records, whether from emergency responders, EMS providers, or certified doctors, to guide outcomes.
Final Thought
So, can you pick your own doctor in a Georgia workers’ comp case? Not exactly. You cannot freely choose any provider you want, but you do have the right to pick from the employer’s panel of physicians and to change once within that list. Emergency care is always covered, and in some cases, lack of a valid panel gives you more freedom.
Whether you are recovering from a fall at work, a vehicle issue on the job, or even a wrong-way driver crash while driving for employment, the choice of doctor shapes your claim. Understanding your rights ensures you don’t lose benefits or get stuck with bills you shouldn’t have to pay.
About Ted Law
At Ted Law Firm,Ted Law supports workers across South Carolina and Georgia navigating the complex world of workers’ compensation. We proudly represent injury victims throughout Georgia, including Atlanta, Athens, Savannah, Columbus, Warner Robins, and Macon.By focusing on the human side of workplace injuries and the real impact of medical decisions, Ted Law stands with families seeking fairness, dignity, and a path toward recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation
