Workers’ compensation, like any practice of law, is an ever-changing industry with new amendments to rules and regulations each year. In Georgia, the State Board of Workers’ Compensation outlines 388 rules pertaining to every aspect of workers’ compensation—from employee rights to employer duties and physician commitments. It is the obligation of any workers’ compensation attorney to understand the ins-and-outs of each of these rules and how they apply to every case. While it is in no way expected that a client has any knowledge of these rules, a concept of these foundational factors can go a long way in ensuring you, as a worker, are equipped with the basic awareness of your rights. The more insight workers have, the better prepared they are to fight in the instance of wrongdoing.

In 2022, the Georgia State Board of Workers’ Compensation only approved two amendments to established rules. Those changes are as follows:

Rule 203—Peer Review Procedures

“The Board approved a new peer review organization in 2021. Claims Eval is the Board’s approved peer review organization and reviews disputes between medical providers and employers and insurers regarding medical charges. Some changes were made to the process and procedures for filing for peer review.”

Rule 205 (c)—Petition for Medical Treatment

“A change was made to the rule to clarify that all medical treatment, items, and services covered by O.C.G.A. §34-9-200 can be included in the PMT process.”

These rule changes might seem minor, but to those not versed in workers’ compensation law, they most likely make little to no sense. The workers’ compensation system in Georgia—and everywhere else—is an exceptionally difficult system. For you, the injured worker, it can be overwhelming and intimidating trying to wade through the players in the game. The insurance company is not your friend. They are there strictly to manage risk and pay the least amount of money as possible with no regard to your health and wellness. Without a lawyer, you significantly decrease the chances of obtaining a fair sum of money for your claim.

You need a strong advocate that can protect your rights and walk you through the process. If you ever run into the following situations, hiring an attorney is your only real shot at a fair settlement. A workers’ comp attorney knows the system inside out and will help you navigate through the entire process. Just remember, time is of the essence and speaking to an attorney early on in your claim will help you start off on the right foot and keep you on the right track. Poirier Law Firm is here to help—reach out today.