According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Wisconsin had 61,200 nonfatal workplace injury reports in 2021. When you are navigating a worker’s compensation case, organizing your medical records is an important step.
These records provide essential documentation of your injury, treatment, and recovery process. Proper organization not only helps you keep track of your medical history but also ensures that you have the necessary evidence to support your case.
Collect all relevant records
Start by gathering all medical records related to your work-related injury. When you request them, make sure you ask the release of information department that the records be certified and run from the date of your work injury forward in time. You should also request your certified itemized billing statements for the same time period that correspond with those records. Your records and bills request includes hospital records, doctor’s notes, diagnostic test results, surgical reports, and prescription records. If you have pre-existing unrelated medical conditions or injuries, keep those records separate to prevent any confusion or misinterpretation.
You also want to keep any correspondence related to your worker’s compensation case, such as letters or emails with your employer, insurance company, or medical providers, with your medical records.
Arrange your records in chronological order, starting with the earliest document related to your injury and progressing to the most recent. This chronological organization will help you and any potential reviewers understand the progression of your medical treatment.
Make copies
You should make copies to use during your case. You can share copies with your employer, insurance company, or any relevant parties.
Create an organized folder or binder
Invest in a sturdy folder or binder to keep your medical records organized. Use dividers or tabs to separate different types of documents, such as medical bills, treatment summaries, and diagnostic reports.
Label each document with a brief description, date, and the medical provider’s name. This labeling system makes it easy to locate specific records.
Stay current
Continuously update your medical records and bills as you receive new treatment or have follow-up appointments. Keeping your records current ensures that you have the most accurate and up-to-date information for your case.
Organizing your medical records is an important step in effectively managing your worker’s compensation case. You can often avoid delays or issues simply by having documents when you need them.