QUALIFIED NORTH CAROLINA
WORKERS’ COMPENSATION ATTORNEYS
DECADES OF EXPERIENCE.
NORTH CAROLINA BOARD CERTIFIED
WORKERS’ COMPENSATION ATTORNEYS
Please Call One of Our board-certified Workers' compensation Specialists For a Free Consultation (833) 444-4257
Please Call One of Our board-certified Workers' compensation Specialists For a Free Consultation (833) 444-4257
Navigating a workers' compensation claim can be challenging, especially for injured workers in rural areas near Raleigh, North Carolina. The process can feel even more daunting when you’re dealing with a nurse case manager (NCM).
Knowing how to handle interactions with an NCM is essential to safeguarding your workers’ compensation case and ensuring your recovery isn’t compromised. Let’s explore the common mistakes injured workers make with NCMs and how attorney Justin Wraight of Cardinal Law Partners can guide you through the process with confidence.
NCMs are hired to monitor and manage your medical care as part of the workers’ compensation process. Their role often includes attending medical appointments, discussing care plans with your physician, and coordinating treatments. While this may seem beneficial, it’s important to remember that NCMs are focused on achieving goals for the insurance company, which often center on cutting costs.
In North Carolina, NCMs are required to follow specific rules set by the North Carolina Industrial Commission, which mandate impartiality. However, the reality is that their role inherently involves a conflict of interest, as the insurance company employs them. This relationship makes it crucial for injured workers to fully understand their rights and the limitations of the NCM’s role.
A significant misstep for injured workers is assuming that the NCM’s intentions align with their own. Because NCMs are hired by the insurance company, their primary objective is often to minimize costs. This priority could lead to actions such as:
Remember, you have the right to speak privately with your doctor. An NCM can attend your appointments only if you grant permission, and their presence is strictly observational. They do not have the authority to direct your care.
NCMs may ask questions about your injuries, daily activities or overall well-being under the guise of showing concern. Unfortunately, what you share can later be used to challenge your claim or reduce your workers’ comp benefits.
Avoid discussing:
Focus strictly on the facts of your treatment and injury. If you’re unsure how to respond to an NCM’s queries, consult your attorney before engaging in any conversation.
Another common error is agreeing to treatments, therapies or provider referrals without seeking legal guidance. Recommendations from an NCM may steer you toward medical professionals who prioritize the insurance company's interests over your recovery.
A skilled workers’ compensation attorney can ensure your rights are protected by advocating for unbiased treatment plans and exploring second opinions when necessary.
Documentation is a fundamental tool for protecting your workers' compensation claim. Many injured workers don't maintain thorough records of their communications with NCMs, leaving them vulnerable to disputes down the line.
To safeguard your case, keep detailed records of:
Share these records with your attorney so they can address any discrepancies or conflicts.
NCMs have a specific role to play, and that role does not include making medical decisions or determining your ability to return to work. The only person authorized to make these determinations is your treating physician.
Unfortunately, some workers unknowingly allow NCMs to overstep their boundaries, such as:
Having an experienced attorney like Justin Wraight manage interactions with an NCM can shield you from these overreaches, ensuring decisions are based solely on what’s in your best interest.
At Cardinal Law Partners, we are committed to ensuring injured workers receive the care and benefits they’re entitled to. Our hands-on approach helps you stay informed and protected throughout the workers’ compensation process. Here’s what we do:
Don’t let an NCM undermine your case. We’ll step in to advocate for you, freeing you to focus on getting better without the added stress.
If you’ve been injured at work in the greater Raleigh area or its surrounding rural communities, don’t leave your workers’ compensation case to chance.
Call us today at (833) 444-4257 to schedule your free consultation. Learn how we can protect your rights, secure the benefits you deserve and help you move forward with peace of mind.
We are passionate about providing excellent representation for our clients. Therefore, If you have suffered personal injury, it is important to understand benefits you may be entitled to receive. All of our attorneys are North Carolina Board Certified Workers’ Compensation Specialists and will help you understand your rights.
