Usually, my case manager asks me for information which I relay to my doctor and then he usually just sends whatever is needed directly to the case manager. However, I was just given a new rehab consultant and he said that they need to be able to communicate with the doctor directly, hence my case manager just sent me a form to sign which allows them to
" gather information pertaining to my claim, employer, group plan administrator, Heath care professionals, Heath care institution and any other medically - related facility, rehabilitation provider, insurer, administrators of government benefits or other benefits programs, the medical information Bureau and investigation agency to exchange information requested by the insurance company"
Is this something I should sign? I don’t want them to have this much access. Is it possible to ask them to make it more precise? Do I have the right to refuse to sign it?
It is normal for rehabilitation consultant to want to speak directly with your doctor and other health professionals. Also it is part of your duty to mitigate to follow reasonable recommendations from health care providers. Allowing them to speak with your doctor can be reasonable in many cases. You have a right to restrict the authorization form to limit the communications direclty between your doctor, insurer and rehab consultant. But again you want to be reasonable, so if they need to coordinate other SPECIFIC people or organziations you should allow that as well. I would not recommend refusing to sign outright. just my thoughts and other lawyers may disagree.
David Brannen
Disability Lawyer with Resolute Legal
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