0–24 hours: Take care of your health and start the paper trail
- Tell your supervisor right away. Share when, where, and how the injury happened. If it’s an emergency, get care first, then notify your employer as soon as you are able.
- Get medical care promptly. Except for emergencies, treatment in New York should be with a Workers’ Compensation Board–authorized provider. Tell your clinician it’s work-related so documentation is correct from the first visit.
- Document everything. Note your symptoms, how the injury occurred, any witnesses, and take photos if helpful. Bring this to your visit. Clear details lead to stronger clinical notes and fewer delays.
- Save your paperwork. Keep discharge papers, instructions, and any forms you receive. Your treating provider will submit required medical reports to kick off your claim.
24–48 hours: Lock in written notice and line up follow-ups
- Provide written notice to your employer. Email or use your company’s form or policy. Earlier is better to avoid disputes.
- Schedule your follow-up with an authorized clinician. Early, appropriate care helps you recover faster and keeps approvals moving.
- Start your claim file. Create a folder—digital or paper—for visit notes, work restrictions, and all communications with HR or insurance. Keep it organized from day one.
48–72 hours: File your claim and set your return-to-work plan
- File your Employee Claim (Form C-3). Completing the official claim early helps protect your benefits and speeds approvals.
- Confirm work restrictions and next steps with your clinician—light duty, lifting limits, overhead work limits, and follow-up care.
- Share your restrictions with your employer or HR and keep a copy for your records. Consistent, timely documentation prevents delays.
What to bring to your first clinic visit
- Government ID and any insurance or claim info (if assigned)
- A brief incident timeline (date and time, how it happened, witnesses)
- Symptom log (pain, weakness, numbness or tingling, what worsens or helps)
- Job demands list (lifting, overhead work, standing or walking, driving)
- Any prior imaging or relevant medical history
Why this matters: In New York, the treating provider’s notes are central to your case. Accurate, early documentation and clear work restrictions help you get the right care without unnecessary delays.
FAQs
- Do I have to see a specific doctor?
In an emergency, go to the nearest ER or urgent care. Otherwise, New York generally requires treatment by a Board-authorized provider for workers’ comp cases. - How fast should I file my claim form?
As soon as you can. Filing early helps prevent administrative delays and supports continuous care. - What if I am unsure my injury is work-related?
Report the incident and get evaluated. Your clinician will document findings. If you have process questions, ask your care team for guidance.
Why choose Park West Surgical for work injuries?
- Board-authorized orthopedic clinicians focused on safe, timely return-to-work
- Coordinated documentation your claim needs, including work restrictions and clinical notes
- Same- or next-day appointments when available