What you need to know about leaving Colorado as an injured worker
When you’re receiving workers’ compensation benefits and considering a move to another state, it’s crucial to understand the potential implications for your ongoing medical treatment and benefit payments.
In this blog, our Denver workers’ compensation attorneys explore what happens when you’re on workers’ comp and decide to move out of state, focusing on what you need to know if you’re covered under Colorado workers’ compensation laws.
Understanding your rights and responsibilities
- Continuity of medical care: One of the primary concerns is ensuring that you can continue to receive appropriate medical care in your new state. Colorado’s workers’ compensation laws require that your medical benefits continue, but the practical aspect of transferring care can be complex.
- Compliance with treatment plans: Maintaining compliance with your prescribed treatment plans is essential to ensure that your benefits continue uninterrupted. This may involve coordinating care between your current providers in Colorado and potential new providers in your new state.
What to do before moving
1. Notify all relevant parties
Before you make your move, it’s important to notify your employer, their insurance carrier, and possibly the Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation about your relocation plans. Transparency helps prevent any potential disruptions in your benefits.
2. Plan your medical care transition
Work with your current medical providers and adjuster to ensure a smooth transition of care to providers in your new state. This requires giving notice to the adjuster and securing referrals to new physicians who can manage your ongoing treatment.
3. Consult with your workers’ comp attorney
An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help navigate the legal and procedural nuances of moving while on workers’ comp. They can provide advice specific to your case and help ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
Legal considerations and potential challenges
Jurisdiction issues
Your workers’ compensation claim is governed by Colorado law, and moving to another state does not change the jurisdiction of your claim. However, logistical issues such as attending hearings or complying with specific procedural requirements may be complicated by your move.
Potential impact on benefits
Depending on the specifics of your case and the state to which you move, there may be challenges related to the cost of living adjustments or changes in the availability of certain types of medical care, which could impact your benefits.
Ensuring uninterrupted benefits
- Stay proactive in communication: Regular communication with your employer and their insurance carrier is key to managing your benefits effectively from out of state. Keep them updated on your contact information, medical care status, and any changes in your condition.
- Follow all prescribed treatments and evaluations: To avoid disputes about your benefits, adhere to all treatment plans and attend any required medical evaluations, even if it means traveling back to Colorado.
Injured at work? Call Kaplan Morell
Moving to another state while on workers’ comp involves careful planning and coordination. Managing your workers’ compensation claim and continue receiving benefits is possible, but it requires diligence and proactive communication. Consulting with a workers’ compensation attorney like those at Kaplan Morrell can provide you with the guidance needed to navigate this complex situation successfully.
If you’re considering a move or have already relocated and need assistance with your workers’ comp claim, contact Kaplan Morrell to ensure your rights and benefits are fully protected, no matter where you live.
