Even if you are careful and follow safety protocols, you may eventually suffer an injury at work. This is because workplace injuries are exceedingly common in the U.S. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were about 2.6 million of them in the private sector in 2021 alone.
To improve your chances of making a full recovery, you should report your injury to your employer as soon as you can. You also should visit a doctor to receive a diagnosis and begin a treatment plan. What should you tell the doctor about your on-the-job injury, though?
How your injury happened
To be able to treat you effectively, the physician might need to know exactly how you suffered your injury. Therefore, you should explain what you were doing when the injury occurred. If you are unsure how the injury happened, though, you should not guess.
How you are feeling
You should not be shy about your pain and other injury-related symptoms. After all, doctors use this information to determine how to proceed with your care. When discussing your symptoms, tell your physician if anything improves or worsens them. Also, do not forget to educate the doctor about how your injury impairs your ability to do your job.
What you have been through in the past
If you are seeing a doctor for your workplace injury, there is a good chance the doctor might not be familiar with your medical history. Because of possible drug interactions and other concerns, you should discuss any medications you are taking. You also should tell the doctor about any preexisting conditions you have and previous injuries that have healed.
Ultimately, by having a full and frank discussion with the doctor, you improve your chances of both recovering completely and receiving the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve.