What is a designated treating physician?
A designated treating physician (DTP) is a specific type of doctor in California that is designated by the employer or insurance company to provide medical care to a worker who has been injured on the job. The DTP is allowed to provide medical treatment to the employee, including diagnosis and treatment. The DTP is also responsible for documenting the medical care provided to an injured worker in California and in Workers Compensation Law is empowered to approve or deny a worker’s eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits. The DTP must also provide a medical evaluation of the worker’s injury, which is then used to determine whether the worker is eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. The DTP is usually the first medical professional to assess an injured worker and is responsible for deciding the severity of the injury. The doctor is also responsible for referring the worker to other medical professionals, such as specialists, if deemed necessary. The DTP will also be responsible for managing the worker’s recovery. This may include recommending modified duty or rest periods for the worker and coordinating with the employer to ensure that the employee is following the doctor’s instructions with regards to treatment and recovery. The DTP may also make adjustments to the medical care plan as conditions change.
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