C. Jeremy Lagasse, Esq.
Injured workers are entitled to a variety of benefits known collectively as Workers’ Compensation. The law in Minnesota provides for medical, wage loss, vocational rehabilitation, and permanent partial disability benefits. If you have been injured and have received benefits, you probably have some experience seeing how these benefits are administered. Maybe you have been able to go to your doctor’s appointments without receiving bills, or you might have even received weekly wage loss checks. However, one benefit that most people never hear of before suffering a work injury are Qualified Rehabilitation Consultants (QRC).
A QRC is a vocational consultant that serves as a neutral party and helps coordinate medical appointments and facilitate the employee’s return to work. The QRC is there to help, in theory. In practice, however, things are subject to human nature, so it is important to know your rights.
There are two ways a QRC can get involved in your case: either you choose one, or the insurance company chooses one for you. If the insurance company has chosen a QRC for you, you have sixty (60) days to reject that QRC and choose your own. Be sure to ask your attorney to recommend a QRC they know and trust – it matters when you need to go to battle over your benefits. We work with a variety of talented QRCs that help our clients every day.
Here are some things to consider when choosing a QRC:
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QRCs go with you to some of your medical appointments. Is this person someone that you can trust to maintain the utmost professionalism and help you understand the complex medical information that your doctor may throw at you?
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QRCs communicate with your supervisor/employer. Is this person going to fairly and accurately communicate your doctor’s recommendations to your employer and push for the restrictions and accommodations that you need to get back to work?
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QRCs are called to testify about whether you were compliant with your doctor’s recommendations and participated in your vocational rehabilitation plan. Is this person helping you to do your best and providing you with the tools you need to succeed?
Here at Aaron Ferguson Law, we understand the complexities of the workers’ compensation system, including the importance of a good QRC. Call 651-493-0426 to set up a free consultation with one of our knowledgeable attorneys. We will fight for your benefits!
