Legal Question in Workers Comp in North Carolina

Re: Severe Hand/Wrist Injury

Assuming the case is accepted and in pay status, I would recommend you and your wife speak with the treating physician about her depression. If the treating physician recommends formal treatment/evaluation with a mental health expert, and relates her depression to her injury, then the workers' compensation carrier must pay the bill.

For more detailed information, you should consult the North Carolina Industrial Commission website and an experienced specialist in this area of the law. A link to the NCIC website can be found on our site at ncworkcomp.com. Good luck!

S. Neal Camak

Lennon & Camak, PLLC

Raleigh, NC

Re: Severe Hand/Wrist Injury

Here is an approach we use. Short term - Go to Wake County Mental Health. If suicidal/homocidal go to an Emergency room.

Longer term - if claim is accepted and benefits are being paid, discuss with treating doctor and get a referral to a psychiatrist in writing. Ask the carrier to pay. If refused, write to the Industrial Commission asking them to Order a psychiatric evaluation and treatment as necessary. Be aware that the carrier may try to send her to one of their "pet" doctors. You are walking through a procedural minefield. Get a lawyer - preferably a Board certified specialist in workers comp law - to represent you. Time limits may be running. Good luck.