When you’re injured on the job and receiving workers’ compensation benefits, you may receive a call from a Nurse Case Manager (NCM) assigned to your case. They may claim they are there to help you recover and navigate your medical treatment. However, what they won’t tell you is that they work for the insurance company, not for you.
What is a Nurse Case Manager?
A Nurse Case Manager is a medical professional hired by the workers’ compensation insurance company to oversee your treatment and recovery. While they may seem helpful, their primary goal is to save the insurance company money by expediting your return to work—even if you’re not fully recovered.
Why You Should Be Cautious
Nurse Case Managers often portray themselves as patient advocates, but their actions tell a different story:
- They Pressure Your Doctors – NCMs will try to influence your treating physician to clear you for work earlier than necessary, which could put your health at risk.
- They Attend Your Medical Appointments – In some cases, NCMs attempt to be present at your doctor’s visits to monitor what is being said and push for an early return to work.
- They Communicate with the Insurance Company – Any information you share with them can and will be used to minimize or terminate your benefits.
- They Mislead You About Treatment – Some NCMs may claim you don’t need further medical care when, in reality, your condition still requires treatment.
What to Do If a Nurse Case Manager Contacts You
If a Nurse Case Manager reaches out to you, do not engage with them without legal representation. Instead, take the following steps:
- Politely Decline to Speak with Them – You are not legally required to talk to a Nurse Case Manager.
- Contact The Pisanchyn Law Firm Immediately – Our experienced workers’ compensation lawyers will protect your rights and ensure you receive the medical care and benefits you deserve.
- Follow Your Doctor’s Advice – Only your doctor, not the insurance company or their representatives, should dictate your recovery timeline.
Pisanchyn Law Firm is Here to Protect You
Insurance companies will use every tactic possible to reduce their financial liability, including using Nurse Case Managers to pressure you into returning to work too soon. At The Pisanchyn Law Firm, we have extensive experience handling workers’ compensation cases and fighting against unfair insurance practices.
If you’ve been contacted by a Nurse Case Manager, call us immediately for a free consultation. We will stand by your side and make sure your rights, health, and financial well-being are fully protected.
