If you’ve been injured on the job in Georgia, one of the first things you’ll hear about is the Posted Panel of Physicians. This panel plays a crucial role in how you receive medical treatment for your workplace injury—and it could significantly affect your workers’ compensation benefits.
What is the Posted Panel of Physicians?
In Georgia, employers are required by law to post a list—usually called the Posted Panel of Physicians—in a visible location at the worksite. This panel typically includes at least six approved doctors or medical providers that an injured worker can choose from for treatment related to their injury.
There are a few key rules:
- At least one orthopedic doctor must be included.
- No more than two industrial clinics can be on the panel.
- The panel must be posted in a prominent location, such as a break room or near time clocks.
- It must be up to date, with accurate contact information and availability.
- The posted panel must be placed in a conspicuous area that is readily accessible to all workers. For example, it cannot be inside a locked supply room or any area that workers do not have regular access to.
Why the Posted Panel Is Important
If you’re injured at work, the posted panel isn’t just a formality—it directly affects your medical care and your workers’ compensation benefits. In Georgia, you’re generally required to choose a doctor from the panel to have your medical treatment covered. If you go to an unauthorized doctor, you may have to pay out-of-pocket, and your employer’s insurance may deny your claim.
Here’s why using the panel matters:
- Your medical bills will be covered — as long as the doctor is from the panel and authorized.
- Your treatment is officially documented, which is critical for proving your injury and getting benefits like wage replacement.
- Referrals to specialists must also come from the panel doctor, so starting with the right provider is key.
- Your choice of doctor matters — you have the right to pick from the list, and if you’re unhappy with the first one, you’re allowed one change to another panel doctor without needing approval.
Your choice of doctors is one of the most important decisions you can make relating to your work accident. Many workers’ compensation attorneys are familiar with the doctors that practice in the workers’ compensation area. Contact our office to get some guidance on which doctor to choose.
You have one opportunity to change from one panel doctor to another panel doctor. Consult a workers’ compensation attorney if you are contemplating changing physicians. You may also have the right to an Independent Medical Examination (IME) if you disagree with the findings or treatment plans of the panel doctor.
This IME can be with a doctor of your choosing and is often paid for by the employer’s insurance.
Bottom line: choosing the right doctor from the posted panel is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health and your claim.
What Are Your Rights as an Injured Worker?
As an employee in Georgia, you have the right to choose a doctor from the Posted Panel—you’re not locked into seeing the first one your employer suggests. Even after you choose, you’re allowed one change to another doctor on the panel without prior approval.
Additionally:
- If the panel is invalid or not properly posted, you may be allowed to select your own physician.
- If you need emergency treatment, you can go to any provider, and the employer’s insurer should cover it.
What If Your Employer Doesn’t Have a Valid Panel?
If your employer does not have a valid or visible Posted Panel of Physicians, you may not be restricted in your choice of doctor. This can open the door to seeing your own preferred healthcare provider and still having those costs covered by workers’ compensation.
It’s always a good idea to document the panel or lack thereof, especially right after an injury, and to notify your employer in writing.
Final Thoughts
The Posted Panel of Physicians is more than just a list—it’s your gateway to treatment and benefits after a workplace injury in Georgia. Understanding how it works can help you protect your rights, get appropriate care, and avoid complications with your claim.
If you’re unsure whether your employer’s panel is valid or if you feel your rights are being denied, it’s wise to consult THE LAW OFFICE OF CARLOS CORLESS to ensure you receive the care and compensation you deserve.