Can I Pick My Own Doctor After a Work Injury in Florida?

One of the first questions we hear from injured workers is: “Can I see my own doctor?”

The short answer in Florida workers’ compensation law is: No, not at first. But there are some exceptions — and important things you need to know.

Florida Law and Workers’ Comp Doctors

In Florida, once you report a work-related injury, your employer’s insurance company is responsible for providing medical treatment.
But here’s the catch: They get to choose the doctor.

The insurance carrier will usually send you to a provider in their approved network — someone they’ve contracted with, and who understands how the workers’ comp system works.

Why Can’t I Pick My Own Doctor?

The system is designed to control medical costs and ensure consistency. But let’s be honest — this doesn’t always feel fair to the injured worker.

You may worry that the insurance doctor:

• Doesn’t listen to your concerns.
• Is rushing you back to work.
• Minimizes your injury to save the insurance company money.

These are real concerns, and we hear them all the time.

Can I Ever Choose My Own Doctor?

Yes, but only in limited circumstances. Here’s how it can happen:

✅ One-Time Change of Physician

Florida law allows you one opportunity to request a change of doctor per specialty.

• The request must be made in writing to the insurance carrier.
• If the carrier doesn’t respond within 5 calendar days, you get to choose the doctor.
• If they do respond on time, they still pick the new provider.

This is a strategic move — and should usually be done with legal guidance.

✅ Emergency Care

If you need emergency treatment and the employer fails to authorize care in time, you may be allowed to seek care on your own and have it covered. This is rare but important.

✅ Independent Medical Exam (IME)

You can request an independent medical exam once per case, at your expense or during litigation. This isn’t a treating doctor — but it can help challenge the carrier’s decisions.

Can I See My Personal Doctor Anyway?

You can — but it likely won’t be covered under workers’ compensation. That means:

• You pay out-of-pocket.
• Their opinion may not carry legal weight unless used in litigation.

So while it’s fine to get a second opinion for your peace of mind, it doesn’t replace your authorized workers’ comp doctor.

What If I Don’t Like My Workers’ Comp Doctor?

You’re not stuck forever. But you need to act smart:

• Document any concerns.
• Don’t skip appointments — that can hurt your case.
• Consider using your one-time change at the right moment.
• Talk to a workers’ comp attorney before making a move.

Bottom Line

In Florida, you don’t get to pick your doctor after a work injury — at least not right away.
But you do have rights and strategic options, including a one-time change that can make a big difference in your recovery and your case.

At Bichler & Longo, we help first responders and injured workers navigate the system — including how to handle difficult doctors. If you’re unhappy with your medical care or unsure what to do next, call us for a free consultation.

Your health — and your future — are too important to leave in the hands of an insurance company.

407-599-3777

Ann@bichlerlaw.com