The WC-200a form, known as the Change of Physician/Additional Treatment by Consent, plays a crucial role within the Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation system. It allows injured workers to request a change in their treating physician or to seek additional medical treatment, with the consent of their employer, following the proper filing of initial claim forms. Once properly executed and filed, with necessary copies distributed, this form solidifies the requested medical changes and ensures the employer's responsibility for the associated medical expenses, as governed by O.C.G.A. §34-9-200(b).
In the realm of workers' compensation in Georgia, navigating the procedural requirements to change a treating physician or to authorize additional medical treatment can be complex. The WC-200a form, officially denoted as "Change of Physician / Additional Treatment by Consent" under the Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation, serves as a crucial document in this process. It facilitates the consent-based change of an injured worker's treating physician or the authorization of additional medical treatment, pivotal for the recovery and well-being of the employee. To initiate this procedure, it's mandatory that a Form WC-1 or WC-14 has already been filed with the Board, setting the stage for the submission of the WC-200a form. The form's proper execution and submission to the Board, along with the distribution of copies to involved medical providers, triggers its approval and subsequent enforceability as an order of the Board, as per O.C.G.A. §34-9-200 (b). It outlines not only the currently authorized treating physician but also the requested change or addition, including the details of the new medical provider and the agreed terms of treatment. An essential component of this process is the agreement section where both parties, the employee and the employer (or their respective representatives), consent to the change or addition, ensuring the employer's responsibility for necessary and reasonable medical expenses. This form acts not only as a document facilitating critical medical care decisions but also emphasizes the importance of consent and clear communication between the employee, employer, and medical providers in the continuum of care for work-related injuries.
WC-200a CHANGE OF PHYSICIAN / ADDITIONAL TREATMENT BY CONSENT
GEORGIA STATE BOARD OF WORKERS' COMPENSATION
CHANGE OF PHYSICIAN / ADDITIONAL TREATMENT BY CONSENT
Instructions: Prior to filing this form with the Board, a Form WC-1 or WC-14 must have been previously filed with the Board. When properly executed and filed with the Board, with copies provided to the named medical provider(s), this form will be deemed approved, and made the order of the Board pursuant to O.C.G.A. §34-9-200 (b).
Board Claim No.
Employee Last Name
Employee First Name
M.I.
Date of Injury
A. IDENTIFYING INFORMATION
EMPLOYEE
County of Injury
Mailing Address
E-mail Address
City
State
Zip Code
B. PHYSICIANS / TREATMENT
1.The currently authorized treating physician is Dr.: Name
2.The Authorization is requested for treatment by Dr.:
Name
3. The additional treatment authorized is:
C. AGREEMENT
1. The parties agree that a change in treating physician to Dr.
is authorized,
and the employer is to be responsible for payment of necessary and reasonable medical expenses incurred as a result of treatment rendered
by this physician effective
/
.
2. The parties agree that additional medical treatment as noted above may be provided to the employee by Dr.
,
and the employer is to be responsible for payment of necessary and reasonable medical expenses incurred as a result of treatment, effective
. The primary treating physician will remain Dr.
This agreement is made by:
Signature (Employee or Representative)
Signature (Employer or Representative)
Employee / Attorney Name – Print
Employer / Attorney Name – Print
GA Bar Number
D. CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
I hereby certify that I have today sent a copy of this form to all parties, counsel and the above-named medical providers, and to the State Board of Workers’ Compensation, 270 Peachtree Street, N.W., Atlanta, Georgia 30303-1299
Signature
E-mail
Date
Phone Number
IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS PLEASE CONTACT THE STATE BOARD OF WORKERS’ COMPENSATION AT 404-656-3818 OR 1-800-533-0682 OR VISIT http://www.sbwc.georgia.gov
WILLFULLY MAKING A FALSE STATEMENT FOR THE PURPOSE OF OBTAINING OR DENYING BENEFITS IS A CRIME SUBJECT TO PENALTIES OF UP TO $10,000.00 PER VIOLATION (O.C.G.A. §34-9-18 AND §34-9-19).
WC-200a
REVISION 12/2018
200a
CHANGE OF PHYSICIAN / ADDITIONAL
TREATMENT BY CONSENT
Filling out the WC-200A form in Georgia is a crucial step for workers who have been injured on the job and are seeking a change in their medical provider or need additional treatments. This document serves as a formal request and agreement between the employee, employer, and the State Board of Workers' Compensation. To ensure the process is handled smoothly, it's vital to fill out this form accurately and provide all the necessary information. Here are step-by-step instructions to guide you through completing the WC-200A form.
After the form has been filed, it will be processed by the State Board of Workers' Compensation. If everything is in order, the changes or additions to medical treatment as requested will be approved. This consent form is an essential part of ensuring that injured workers receive the necessary medical attention from providers they trust and that their treatment is supported and funded by their employer as mandated. Keep a copy of the form for your records and follow up with the Board if you have any questions or concerns about the process.
What is the purpose of the WC-200a form in Georgia?
The WC-200a form, also known as "Change of Physician / Additional Treatment by Consent," serves a significant role in the Georgia workers' compensation system. Its primary function is to facilitate the process of changing an injured worker's authorized treating physician or to obtain consent for additional medical treatment. This procedure ensures that the injured employee's care is continuous and adequately addressed, adhering to the Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation rules and regulations.
When should the WC-200a form be filed?
Before filing the WC-200a form, it's imperative that a Form WC-1 or WC-14 has already been filed with the Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation concerning the specific injury or case. The WC-200a form should be filed when an injured worker or their representative seeks to change the authorized treating physician to another doctor or when additional medical treatment is necessary for the worker's recovery. This step ensures all parties are in agreement and informed about the change or addition in care.
Who needs to fill out and sign the WC-200a form?
The WC-200a form requires information and signatures from multiple parties. The injured employee or their representative, along with the employer or the employer’s representative, need to provide their details and sign the form. This collaborative completion and signing process confirms the mutual consent for the change of physician or for additional treatment as outlined in the agreement section of the form.
What information is needed to complete the WC-200a form?
To complete the WC-200a form accurately, several pieces of information are required, including:
How is the completed WC-200a form processed?
Once properly executed, the WC-200a form needs to be filed with the Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation, with copies sent to the newly named medical provider(s), the employer, and any other relevant parties. Upon filing and distribution as required, the form is deemed approved and becomes an order of the Board pursuant to the official Georgia code. This constitutes a formal agreement between all parties for the change or addition of medical treatment.
What happens if there is a disagreement about the WC-200a form’s terms?
In cases where there is a dispute over the terms of the WC-200a form, such as disagreement on the change of physician or the necessity of additional treatment, the parties involved may seek resolution through the Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation's dispute resolution process. This is critical to ensure that the injured worker's medical care and recovery needs are met while adhering to the legal and procedural frameworks established.
Is there a deadline for filing the WC-200a form?
The WC-200a form does not specify a strict deadline for its filing following an injury or the commencement of initial treatment. However, it is advisable to submit the form at the earliest opportunity when a change in physician or additional treatment is required. Timely filing helps in avoiding unnecessary delays in the injured worker's treatment and ensures the continuity of care.
Can the decision on the WC-200a form be appealed?
Should any party disagree with the handling or the outcomes based on the WC-200a form, such as denial of a requested physician change or additional treatment, they can appeal within the broader appeals process governed by the Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation. The appeals process allows for the reconsideration of decisions, ensuring fairness and adherence to the laws governing workers' compensation in Georgia.
What penalties exist for providing false information on the WC-200a form?
According to Georgia law, willfully providing false information on the WC-200a form, or any workers' compensation form, for the purpose of obtaining or denying benefits, is considered a crime. Individuals found to have provided false information are subject to penalties, including fines of up to $10,000.00 per violation. This underscores the importance of accuracy and honesty in the claims process.
How can one get help with filling out the WC-200a form?
For assistance with filling out the WC-200a form or understanding its requirements, individuals can contact the Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation directly. The Board provides resources and support to ensure that injured workers and their employers can navigate the workers’ compensation process smoothly and in compliance with state laws and regulations.
Filling out the WC-200a form in Georgia requires attention to detail and an understanding of the process. Here are ten common mistakes people make when completing this form.
When filling out the WC-200a form, paying attention to these details can significantly impact the outcome of your request for a change of physician or additional treatment. Ensure that all sections are completed accurately, and the form is submitted according to the prescribed instructions.
When dealing with workers' compensation cases in Georgia, the WC-200a form plays a crucial role in changing physicians or requesting additional medical treatment. This document ensures that any changes in medical care are properly documented and approved, maintaining a smooth process for both employees and employers. However, the WC-200a isn't the only form that plays a vital part in the workers' compensation process. There are several other documents often used alongside it to handle various aspects of a claim efficiently.
Together with the WC-200a form, these documents form a comprehensive framework for managing workers' compensation claims in Georgia. They ensure that the employee’s medical needs are met, while also outlining the responsibilities and obligations of the employers and insurers involved in the process. By properly using and understanding these forms, all parties can navigate the workers' compensation system more smoothly and efficiently.
The WC-200a Georgia form, titled "Change of Physician / Additional Treatment by Consent," is pivotal within the operations of the Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation, facilitating changes or additions in an injured employee's medical care provisions. This form's structure and objectives are mirrored in several other documents, each serving distinct yet complementary functions within the realm of workers' compensation and employee welfare.
The first document similar to the WC-200a Georgia form is the WC-1, commonly known as the "Employer's First Report of Injury or Occupational Disease." Like the WC-200a, WC-1 plays an essential role in the workers' compensation process by officially initiating a claim following an injury or illness attributable to the workplace. Both documents are designed to streamline and document critical information regarding an employee's work-related condition, yet their primary distinction lies in their point of entry into the claims process. The WC-1 serves as the initial notification to the Board and involved parties of the occurrence and details of a work-related injury, thus establishing the foundation for any necessary follow-up actions, such as those facilitated by the WC-200a.
Similarly, the WC-14, titled "Notice of Claim / Request for Hearing / Request for Mediation," shares commonalities with the WC-200a, especially concerning its procedural role in the continuation of a workers' compensation claim. The WC-200a and WC-14 are intertwined in their administrative function, with the latter often preceding the former in the claims process. The WC-14 is primarily utilized to notify the State Board of Workers' Compensation and other relevant parties of the employee's intent to seek legal or mediatory resolution regarding their workers' compensation claim. Its completion is a prerequisite for the WC-200a, which further underscores their collaborative role in ensuring an employee's access to appropriate medical treatment and the pursuit of their claim within the legal system.
When navigating the process of completing the WC-200a form in Georgia, it is vital to approach with attention and care. This document plays a crucial role in managing one's workers' compensation claim, specifically concerning changes in physician or additional treatments. Below are important dos and don'ts to keep in mind:
Attention to these guidelines when filling out the WC-200a form can significantly aid in the smooth handling of your workers' compensation claim. Remember, the goal is to ensure that you receive the appropriate medical treatment necessary for your recovery and well-being. Should you have any questions or need clarification on the process, contacting the State Board of Workers' Compensation is a recommended course of action.
In the realm of workers’ compensation in Georgia, the WC-200A form is a crucial document for those navigating the process of changing physicians or seeking additional treatment by consent. However, there are several misconceptions surrounding this form and its use. Let's address some of these misunderstandings to ensure employees and employers alike are fully informed.
Misconception 1: The WC-200A form can be filed at any time. Contrary to what some might believe, you cannot file a WC-200A form without a previously filed Form WC-1 or WC-14 with the Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation. This stipulation ensures that there is an established claim prior to any change of physician or additional treatment being requested.
Misconception 2: Approval from the Board is required before the form becomes effective. Once properly executed and filed with the Board, with copies provided to the named medical providers, the WC-200A form is deemed approved and becomes the order of the Board pursuant to O.C.G.A. §34-9-200 (b). This means that the authorization process is streamlined, without the need for explicit approval from the Board to proceed.
Misconception 3: Any doctor can be chosen as the new treating physician. While the WC-200A form allows for a change of physician, the new doctor must generally be within the network provided by the employer's workers' compensation insurance unless otherwise agreed upon by all parties. The choice is not entirely unrestricted.
Misconception 4: The form only covers the change of a treating physician. The reality is the WC-200A form also facilitates the authorization of additional medical treatment by a physician other than the primary treating physician. This flexibility supports the comprehensive care of the employee.
Misconception 5: The employer has no say in the process. This form actually requires the consent of both the employee (or their representative) and the employer (or their representative). This ensures that there is mutual agreement on the change of physician or the additional treatment to be provided, reinforcing collaboration in the employee's recovery process.
Understanding these nuances - what the WC-200A form is, when it's used, and how it operates, empowers both employees and employers within the Georgia workers' compensation system. It ensures that when an injury occurs, the focus can remain on achieving the best possible outcome for the injured employee, without administrative confusion. Clearing up these misconceptions helps everyone involved navigate the process more smoothly and effectively.
Filing and using the WC-200a form in Georgia is an important process for workers seeking changes in their medical treatment or physician related to a workers' compensation claim. Here are key takeaways to ensure the process is handled properly:
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