Legal landscape note: This article was originally published in 2015 and describes the law as it stood at that time. New Jersey law changes frequently.
“Going to the Doctor” May Eventually be a Thing of the Past
By Michael Gorny, Esq.
You were injured at work, and now your claim means exam after exam -- each one a trip you have to arrange while you are trying to recover. What if some of those visits could happen over a video link instead? That is the idea behind "Telemedicine," a movement slowly gaining traction, especially in states with large rural populations. Telemedicine, in a nutshell, is the consultation with a medical professional over video or other communication devices, and such consultations may even involve the transmission of vital signs and tests electronically for review by the medical professional.
While we are a long way from never having to physically go to the doctor, some states are legislating how telemedicine is provided and requiring insurance companies to pay for it when it is necessary. One state, Nevada, has even implanted telemedicine into its workers’ compensation law, allowing evaluations and exams of workers injured on the job. New Jersey has pending legislation involving telemedicine, however at this time it does not involve telemedicine for injured workers.
These cutting edge laws provide a glimpse into the future of medical treatment and how workers compensation benefits may be radically changed. However, in its current form, New Jersey’s workers compensation process is often slow moving and requires communication with insurance companies and travelling for medical examinations and treatment. For these reasons, it is very important to have an attorney who is experienced in workers’ compensation in New Jersey to help you through the process.
The occupational injury guide explains the current treatment and claim records that matter after a work injury.