If you’re stuck with a workers’ comp doctor who rushes through your appointments, downplays your injury, or refuses to approve necessary treatment — you’re not alone. In California’s workers’ compensation system, your medical care is typically limited to a Medical Provider Network (MPN). But you do have the right to change your doctor, even within the MPN.
Here’s how to do it — and how to protect your rights if your employer or claims administrator pushes back.
🔹 What Is an MPN?
A Medical Provider Network (MPN) is a group of doctors and medical providers approved by your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance company. They’re supposed to be experienced in treating work-related injuries — but some are more aligned with insurance interests than with injured workers’ recovery.
🔹 When Can You Switch Doctors?
California law allows you to switch treating doctors at least once within the MPN for any reason — including dissatisfaction with your care. You may also be able to switch more than once if medically necessary.
You may want to change your doctor if:
- You feel rushed or dismissed in your appointments
- Treatment is denied or delayed
- You believe the doctor is biased toward the insurance company
- Your condition is not improving
- You’re not receiving referrals to specialists or diagnostic testing
🔹 Steps to Change Your Workers’ Comp Doctor
- Request the MPN Provider List
Ask your claims adjuster or employer for a complete list of MPN-approved providers in your area. - Choose a New Physician
You have the right to pick a new doctor from the MPN list. Look for someone who specializes in your injury and has a good reputation. - Submit the Request in Writing
Notify your claims administrator in writing that you’d like to change your treating physician, and include the name and address of your new doctor. - Wait for Approval (Usually Within 3 Days)
The insurance company is required to respond to your request quickly. If they deny or delay, it may be grounds for a Utilization Review or appeal.
🔹 What If There Are No Doctors Available?
If the MPN doesn’t have a doctor reasonably available within your geographic area or specialty needed, you may be able to:
- Seek care outside the MPN, or
- File a complaint with the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC)
🔹 Can You Switch Outside the MPN?
Yes — but only in limited situations:
- MPN is invalid or noncompliant
- Your employer never gave you proper MPN notification
- No available specialist or reasonable care within the MPN
In these cases, you may have the right to treat with a doctor of your choice outside the network — but expect pushback from the insurance company. That’s when you need a law firm like Employees First Labor Law on your side.
🔹 How EFLL Helps Injured Workers Take Control of Their Care
At Employees First Labor Law, we’ve helped thousands of California workers escape poor-quality MPN care and get the treatment they need to truly recover. We:
✅ Evaluate whether your MPN is valid or restrictive
✅ Help you choose a trusted, worker-focused physician
✅ Fight denied treatment plans through Utilization Review and Independent Medical Review
✅ Maximize your permanent disability rating and protect your long-term benefits
🔹 Don’t Let a Bad Doctor Derail Your Case
If your workers’ comp doctor isn’t helping you heal — or worse, is helping the insurance company — you have options. We’ll make sure you use them strategically.
Contact Employees First Labor Law today for a free consultation.
