AUTO INJURY CARE
After a car accident, it is often a very stressful and emotional time for the injured parties. The process of knowing what to do next can quickly become confusing and overwhelming. We want to make this process as easy as possible for you, so that you can focus on recovering from your injuries and less about insurance and paperwork.
What happens after a car accident?
First and foremost, if you were recently in an accident and have substantial injuries (cuts, broken bones, nausea/vomiting, memory loss, etc.) seek immediate medical attention at a hospital. Otherwise, regular chiropractic care should be a priority to assist in managing your injuries.
A wide range of injuries can occur from being in a car accident. Some of the more common injuries are whiplash, concussion, sprains/strains, and disc injuries. It is also common for symptoms to develop or even worsen for up to 3 weeks following a car accident. This is why we recommend that you receive an evaluation as soon as possible after your accident, even if it is a “minor fender bender”. As musculoskeletal experts, we can help determine the extend of your injuries and begin the recovery process as quickly as possible. In addition to offering the latest and most up-to-date treatment options in our office, we can also order imaging (x-ray, MRI, CT) and coordinate care with other medical professionals to assure that you receive the highest quality of care needed.
Insurance and Payments
Oftentimes, people are unfamiliar with how medical bills are handled for injuries related to a car accident. There are several options here, and they are somewhat situationally dependent. Our office can help assist in making this process as easy as possible, while avoiding financial stress.
Third party coverage: This is the at-fault party’s insurance. If they have accepted responsibility, you will get a claim number from their insurance company in which medical bills can be submitted. This is a more difficult situation. The third party insurance company may deny payments, and will try to “settle” as often and as soon as possible even if treatment is still ongoing.
Attorney representation: We highly recommend at least consulting with an attorney if not going through your primary insurance. The benefits involve the attorney taking over communication on your behalf. They will be able to make sure your treatment will be covered by the responsible party, and provide support and guidance throughout the whole process.
Lien: This is between a healthcare provider’s office and the individual receiving treatment. It is essentially a loan, with the expectation that the provider will be reimbursed for treatment after care is finished, and the case has settled. Due to the risk involved with providing liens, we will require an attorney to help facilitate this process.
Self-pay: Some of our patients will choose to pay all costs involved in their car accident care out of their own pocket at our discounted time of service rate. This typically is not recommended, as sometimes treatment can last for quite a while leading to higher individual costs in the long run.
For any questions, or more information please feel free to call our office at 609.678.8703 or send us an email at chiro@drkararangel.com