Employee refuses WC treatment

dmosson

We have an employee with a work related injury to his left hand. He has been on light duty since April 27, with pretty strict work restrictions. The Therapist working with this employee is recommending therapy 2 times/week, however the employee only wants to go 1 time/week.

I have been in contact with the Physician, and therapy only 1 time/week instead of 2 times/week could possibly slow down his recovery, especially if he is not performing any of the exercises at home.

Has anyone dealt with something like this before? Can we reprimand the employee for not following the recommendations of this physician? Any thoughts are greatly appreciated!

davids

I don't think you can mandate that someone get a certain type or frequency of medical treatment (or medical treatment at all). I would report what I learned from the physician to your workers' compensation carrier and let them deal with it. All you can do is follow your policies or customary practices as far as providing light duty.