Navigating Workers' Compensation Hospital Bills: Steps to Ensure Payment and Court Procedures

Two months ago, a workers' compensation judge ruled that my previous employer was to pay my hospital bills within seven days. However, the employer has still not complied, leading to further complications. It's important to take the appropriate steps to enforce the court order and secure the necessary payments.

Back to Court When Necessary

When a judge orders your employer to pay your hospital bills, you must follow up to ensure compliance. If the employer or their attorney delays payments, you should not hesitate to return to court to secure the funds. It is crucial to hold them accountable for their legal obligation.

Show the Court Order to the Hospital

The hospital's attorney may not respond to your communications. However, you can resolve this by showing the court order directly to the hospital. Presenting this legally binding document ensures that the hospital understands that it is their responsibility to pay the bills. This approach can expedite the payment process and eliminate any further delays.

Authenticate and Validate Your Claims

It is essential to ensure that your claims are properly authenticated and validated. When the case reaches the insurer, the insurer typically must make the payment within 14 days. If they fail to comply, you can file a lawsuit and inform the court about the insurer's non-compliance. This legal action puts pressure on the insurer to pay the medical bills as ordered.

Which Seven Days Are Being Referred To?

If you have not received payment within the seven days mandated by the court, it is crucial to clarify the timeline. Verify the specific date when you submitted the bills to the employer or insurer. Additionally, ensure that the court order clearly identifies the specific bills that need to be paid. If there are any discrepancies or misunderstandings, your attorney can help resolve them, which is critical to the process.

Sending a Certified Demand Letter

Without an attorney, you can still take proactive steps to enforce the payment. Send a certified demand letter to the employer's attorney, including a copy of all relevant bills and the court order. Highlighting the portions of the order that identify the specific bills your employer is responsible for can add weight to your request. Give them a short timeframe to comply, and if the bills are not paid, you can proceed to court for additional damages.

Contacting the Judge and Court

To ensure that your employer complies with the court order, contact the court or the judge who ruled in your favor. Inform them of the non-payment and any other issues you are facing. If delayed payments result in additional fees, make sure to request that these be paid as well. This can help expedite the resolution of your case and ensure that you receive the necessary financial support.

For detailed guidance on navigating the workers' compensation system and enforcing your rights, consider consulting with an attorney who specializes in workers' compensation. They can provide you with legal advice and help you through this process, ensuring you receive the payment you are entitled to.