Is delaying medical treatment a mistake for workers’ comp?

On Behalf of | Jan 30, 2025 | Workers' Compensation |

When you get injured at work, you may feel tempted to push through the pain or delay medical care. Whether you worry about missing work or assume the injury will heal on its own, avoiding treatment can create problems for both your health and your workers’ compensation claim.

How delaying medical care affects your claim

Waiting to see a doctor after a workplace injury can make it harder to prove that your injury happened on the job. Workers’ compensation insurance companies may argue that your injury was not work-related or that it was not serious enough to require benefits. Seeking medical treatment as soon as possible creates a clear record that links your injury to your job.

The risk to your health

Ignoring an injury or hoping it improves without treatment can lead to long-term damage. What starts as a minor issue could turn into chronic pain or a more serious condition. Doctors can identify underlying problems and recommend treatment that helps you recover faster and more fully. Getting care early improves your chances of returning to work without complications.

Employer and insurance company reactions

Your employer and their insurance company may use delayed treatment as a reason to deny or reduce your claim. If there is no immediate medical record of the injury, they might argue that something else caused it. A prompt visit to a doctor provides documentation that protects your right to workers’ compensation benefits.

What Illinois law says about medical treatment

Illinois workers’ compensation laws allow you to seek treatment from two doctors of your choice, plus any specialists they refer you to. The law also states that you must inform your employer of the injury as soon as possible. Delaying care may raise doubts about when and how the injury happened, which could impact your claim.

Taking time to get medical treatment after a workplace injury is not just about securing benefits—it is about protecting your health. Early treatment strengthens your claim and ensures you receive the care you need to recover.

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