What should an employer consider if an employee requests a change of doctor for workers' compensation treatment?

When an employee requests a change of doctor for workers' compensation treatment, the request may indeed be granted as part of their rights. In the context of Hawaii's workers' compensation laws, employees have the right to choose their medical provider and to change doctors if they feel it is necessary for their treatment. This acknowledges that an employee's comfort and trust in their medical treatment are crucial for effective recovery.

Recognizing this right helps support an employee's engagement in their recovery process, ensuring that they feel adequately cared for and that their concerns are taken seriously. Employers must therefore consider this request carefully, as it reflects both the employees' autonomy in their healthcare choices and the legal framework governing workers' compensation in Hawaii.

In contrast, some other options misrepresent the situation. For example, dismissing the employee's preference as irrelevant overlooks the legal rights and emotional well-being of the worker. Similarly, requiring a written request to be filed in a specific way may not reflect the straightforward process allowed in many cases, where a verbal request may suffice, depending on the insurer's procedures. Lastly, stating that an employee cannot change doctors at any time is misleading; while there may be guidelines and conditions that govern such changes, employees typically hold the right to request a new provider