How Important Is Your Relationship with Your Doctor During an Injury Claim?
Executive Summary: In Florida, new laws have made it harder to get medical care after an injury without insurance. Your doctor’s role in your case is now more important than ever. They provide the records that support your claim, so choose a provider who listens, documents carefully, and supports your recovery. A strong doctor-patient relationship can protect both your health and your legal rights.
When you’re hurt in an accident, your doctor becomes more than just the person treating you. They’re a key part of your injury claim. Their notes, decisions, and recommendations play a big role in how your case is viewed. In Florida, recent legal changes make that relationship even more important.
Florida’s Changes Affecting Injury Claims
In 2023, Florida passed laws that changed how personal injury cases work. One of the biggest changes was the elimination of Letters of Protection (LOPs). These were agreements that allowed injured people to get medical care without paying up front, with the provider agreeing to be paid later out of the settlement.
Without LOPs, many doctors are now hesitant to treat patients involved in injury claims unless payment is guaranteed. This can make it harder for people without health insurance to get the care they need.
At the same time, lawmakers are trying to limit how much injured people can recover for medical bills. Some are pushing to cap injury claim payouts at Medicare rates even if the patient never used Medicare. That means a $5,000 medical bill might only be valued at $1,000 in court. These changes don’t favor injured people.
Why Your Doctor Matters in a Claim
Your treating doctor provides the medical records that insurance companies and courts use to understand your injury. Those records can:
Prove the accident caused your injuries
Show the seriousness of your condition
Support the need for ongoing care or future treatment
A strong doctor-patient relationship can also lead to more accurate documentation, better communication, and a better outcome for your claim.
Insurance companies look for gaps in care or missing information. If your doctor’s records don’t clearly explain your symptoms or treatment, the insurer may argue your injuries aren’t real or not that serious.
Tips for Building a Strong Relationship with Your Treating Doctor
Be honest. Tell your doctor everything, even if it seems small.
Keep every appointment. Gaps in treatment can hurt your case.
Follow medical advice. Skipping treatment or ignoring instructions can make it look like you’re not really hurt.
Communicate clearly. If something feels wrong, say it. Don’t downplay your pain.
Also, make sure the doctor knows this is part of a legal claim. They should understand their records might be reviewed or used in court.
Choosing the Right Doctor for Your Case
Not every doctor wants to be involved in a legal case. Some don’t want to testify or deal with insurance paperwork. Look for a provider who understands how personal injury cases work and is willing to document your condition in detail.
If your doctor seems rushed, uninterested, or dismissive, it may affect the quality of your care and your claim. You have the right to get a second opinion or find a provider who takes your injury seriously.
Contact The Law Office of William Robinson
If you’ve been hurt and are worried about how to get the care and support you need, especially with Florida’s recent changes, The Law Office of William Robinson is here to help. Our team understands how these laws impact real people and works with clients to get fair treatment, fair care, and fair compensation. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
