Question

For work comp, the _____ physician is the provider who first diagnosed and treated the injury.

a) primary
b) providing
c) first treating
d) referring

Answer 1

In the context of workers' compensation, the 'first treating' physician is the medical provider who first diagnosed and treated the injury. This role is essential in establishing the treatment plan and affects compensation claims.

Step-by-step explanation:

For work comp, the first treating physician is the provider who first diagnosed and treated the injury. The correct answer is c) first treating.

The term 'first treating physician' specifically refers to the medical professional who initially evaluates and addresses a worker’s injury in a worker's compensation case. This provider plays a crucial role in determining the nature and extent of the injury, the necessary treatment, and may have an ongoing role in case management and determining when the employee may return to work. This initial medical assessment is essential for the worker's compensation process as it lays the foundation for the treatment plan and any potential compensation claims.