Legal Question in Workers Comp in Florida

Workers Comp

Over 9 yrs. ago, I had surgery on shoulder due to work injury. I rec'd lifetime care for the shoulder, atty fees pd by carrier & % of wages while off recuperating. Currently, I was directed to give depositions, sign medical release forms for all of my medical records (even lab tests, routine illnesses & care). I have continued to see the doctor 2x yr. for my shoulder. The carrier's attny now wants information about every aspect of my life. He wants all of my medical records, education, current job, current earnings, etc, etc. They are the ones who want to do a ''wash out'' which I don't object to...but they changed courses after their offer in that they want everything that I feel is none of their business. I refuse to sign medical record releases for my health care that I paid for & is not related to the injury. They are bullying me with F.S. #'s, depositions, etc, etc to force me to sign. I stand firm in that I won't sign. How far can they go?


Asked on 6/16/07, 3:46 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Mark Zientz Law Offices of Mark L. Zientz, P.A.

Re: Workers Comp

You ask a good question. Usually the entity paying for medical care, in this case your two visits per year to the doctor, has the right to investigate your overall medical condition to 'make sure' they are paying for the effects of the injury and not something unrelated. This right is not without limit. A Judge of Compensaiton Claims would be the person who will ultimately decide how much personal information you need to release. Get yourself a consult with a Board Certified Workers' Compensation attorney. You can find one near you either at the Florida Bar website or in the Yellow Pages.From what you described, you are being harassed. But I'm sure there is more to the story that I don't know. Some insurance carriers are harassing the doctors who provide long term care to get them to stop treating.

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Answered on 6/16/07, 5:16 pm


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