Do I need a lawyer?

[FedUpInIllinois2]

I live in Illinois. 5 weeks ago I injured my lower back at work while lifing a patient. I am a CNA and have been doing this job for 2&1/2 yrs. I went to my doctor Fri. 06/08/01.
She imformed me after reading the results from my MRI that I need to find another job that requires no lifting. I have been a CNA since 1983. This is my lifes work. I am very upset because I love my job and I make good money. My question is should I retain a lawyer due to my disability and possibility of having to be retrained for another job and the possibility of a decrease in my future wages? I don't even know if i can be retrained because I have chronic pain if I stand, sit, bend, lift.I am trying to get the case worker for workers comp to let me see a neurologist to do more test. If she refuses Is there any thing I can do? I need to see a specialist. Any help or advice would be appreciated.

 

[NYSLaw]

WC

If your injuries are job related and your treating Physician's are willing to back you with documentation, then you have a compensation case.
Seek the following:

Compensation Attorney
Chiropractor, PC.
Physical Therapist, MD.
Physiatrist, MD.

NYSLaw

 

[FedUpInIllinois2]

Thanks for the input.

Thanks NYSLaw,
My comp case worker has approved me to recieve physical therapy starting tomorrow. But she told me they was giving my case to a nurse that works for them,I should hear from her next Tuesday or Wednesday. They seem to be dragging their feet. Can I also sue them for not handing my case in a timely manner. I am in constant pain even taking several pain pills three times a day. I also was wondering what a physiatrist,MD was and how could they help me? any additional input would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks again,
Rhonda
P.S. Should I contact my doctor for the documentation or should I have a lawyer do this?

 

[NYSLaw]

WC

A Physiatrist is a Physical Medicine/Rehabilitation Doctor who's specializes in pain.
A Physiatrist, like a Neurologist, can also recommend MRI's scans.
There is no time limitation for dragging their feet nor is there any law that prohibits it.



NYSLaw

 

[FedUpInIllinois2]

Thanks again

Thanks once again. I meet with the nurse who is assigned to my case today 6/29/01. Since P/T is not doing me much good she recomended that I go to St.Louis,MO. to see a Physiatrist. The nurse also explained what a Physiatrist does. I still have a guestion for you if you can answer it for me. Is it a normal practice for the Workers Comp. people to assign an outside person like the nurse whom I meet with to follow me to appoitments (doctors/PT). Or should I be concerned about this? Sorry for so many questions but this is all new to me.
Thanks,
Rhonda