Once an injured worker has an established Workers' Compensation claim in New York, they are entitled to lost wage benefits and medical treatment for the injured body sites. One common question is whether chiropractic treatment is covered under New York Workers' Compensation law. The simple, straightforward answer is yes, chiropractic treatment is a covered treatment for injuries involving the neck, as well as the mid and low back.
In 2010, the New York State Workers' Compensation Board (WCB) issued its first set of Medical Treatment Guidelines (MTGs). These guidelines lay out what treatments are recommended for various injuries. The initial MTGs covered injuries to the neck, mid/low back, knees, and shoulders. Since that time the WCB has issued 12 additional sets of MTGs ranging from ankle and foot disorders to traumatic brain injuries.
Each of the MTGs for specific body parts set forth the recommended, and therefore covered, treatments that injured workers can receive. Treatments, procedures, or diagnostic testing that are not recommended, or not listed in the relevant MTG require a doctor to request authorization utilizing the WCB's Prior Authorization Request (PAR) system.
Chiropractic treatment (listed as "manipulation" in the neck and back guidelines) is recommended for acute pain when tied to objective measures of improvement. The initial frequency of treatment can be up to three times per week for the first four weeks. Optimum duration is listed as eight to twelve weeks. Maximum duration is listed as three months. Any additional chiropractic treatment would require the doctor to request additional authorization utilizing the PAR system mentioned above.
Access to prompt medical care after a work-related injury can significantly improve an injured worker's physical, emotional, and financial health. The Workers' Compensation attorneys at MCV Law are extremely familiar with the Medical Treatment Guidelines as well as navigating the PAR system to cut through the red tape and get New York's injured workers the care they need, so they can get their life back. Call MCV Law today if your medical treatment has been denied or delayed.
"Very happy with MCV Law. Christopher Stringham and Valerie Swieck have helped me with several injuries over the years and won every case. They are pleasant to work with and explain everything. I recommend them to anyone needing help with Workers' Comp. I am very happy I went with them."
-Jim T., a satisfied MCV Law client
“I recently had the pleasure of working with MCV Law, and I couldn't be more pleased with their exceptional service. From the very start, their team demonstrated a genuine concern and commitment to my case. Communication was clear and timely, and I felt well-informed and supported throughout the entire process. I highly recommend them for anyone in need of legal representation.”
-Nicholas W., a satisfied MCV Law client