How many attending physicians can a worker have during the life of a claim?

In the context of workers' compensation claims, a worker can have a total of three attending physicians throughout the life of a claim. This regulation is put in place to ensure that there is a consistent approach to the patient’s healthcare while allowing for necessary adjustments in treatment stemming from the complexity or progression of their condition.

The choice of three allows for a reasonable level of care continuity, while also acknowledging that a worker might need to change doctors for various reasons, such as needing a specialist for a specific issue, relocating, or dissatisfaction with treatment. This flexibility is critical for ensuring that the worker's medical needs are adequately met throughout the claim process.

Understanding this limit helps adjusters manage claims effectively and coordinate with healthcare providers. It's important to note that having more than three attending physicians in one claim could complicate the claim process, as it can lead to overlapping treatments and confusion regarding medical opinions.