As a Georgia chiropractor and wellness facility owner, I regularly treat and interact with accident victims.
Helping patients navigate the complex aftermath of an accident is a vital undertaking, especially when the process includes chronic pain, life-altering injuries, and a long, difficult recovery process.
We’ve found that a truly comprehensive recovery for personal injury patients includes financial compensation for treatment and damages. Typically, patients who achieve the best outcomes during and after treatment have a personal injury attorney working on their claim so they can focus on getting healthy.
When insurance companies don’t offer the compensation these patients deserve, we often refer them to an engaged and effective personal injury attorney.
Based on my experience as a board-certified chiropractor and injury and wellness specialist, here are some key qualities that Georgia chiropractors should look for in referring personal injury attorneys:
1. Communication & Case Management
Good communication is absolutely essential. A skilled attorney understands the importance of consistent communication, especially with the patient.
An attorney who is willing to patiently explain the process, answer questions thoroughly, and provide regular updates is invaluable. On the other hand, attorneys who are unresponsive or leave patients in the dark create unnecessary stress and can even harm their case due to a lack of information.
In my experience, open communication between the chiropractor and the attorney is equally crucial. We need to be able to discuss the patient’s progress and potential challenges, such as treatment gaps.
Further, the personal injury attorney you refer your patient to should be responsive to inquiries and meet deadlines.
Personal injury cases can take time. A good attorney will manage them efficiently and keep the patient informed of any delays or progress. This will reduce the patient’s stress and help ensure a timely resolution.
A successful referral ensures that the case’s medical and legal aspects are in sync. An attorney who values this two-way communication and is receptive to our input is a true ally in patient care.
2. Diligent Advocacy
Good personal injury attorneys are dedicated champions for their clients because they understand the physical, mental, and emotional difficulties patients face after an accident.
A comprehensive recovery should address, if not resolve, all of these challenges. Empathy and understanding are key, as the right personal injury attorney will recognize the stress and uncertainty that accompany these cases.
An effective attorney will commit to protecting clients’ rights and working hard to secure fair compensation for injuries, medical bills, and other losses. Patients who are already undergoing medical treatment are entitled to compensation that covers those expenses, as well as other damages, and an engaged attorney will ensure that these costs are covered when the case is concluded.
3. Knowledge & Expertise
Personal injury law is complex and intricate, and insurance companies are well-known for denying, delaying, or minimizing patients’ claims after accidents. Therefore, it is essential for Georgia chiropractors to refer patients to an attorney who is knowledgeable and experienced in all aspects of the claims process, including litigation.
Experience in negotiating with insurance companies before litigation is also crucial. A capable attorney will be able to evaluate the strength of a case, advise the patient on their options, and develop a smart strategy for pursuing their claim.
4. Respect for the Doctor-Patient Connection
Experienced attorneys understand and respect the importance of the doctor-patient relationship. They value our professional expertise and recognize the vital role we play in the patient’s recovery journey.
They should be willing to collaborate with us, seeking our input on medical matters and keeping us informed about any legal developments that might affect our treatment plan.
5. Integrity & Professionalism
Finally, it’s essential for Georgia chiropractors to work with an attorney who demonstrates the highest levels of integrity and professionalism. They should be honest, ethical, and transparent in their interactions with both the patient and the chiropractor. They should also adhere to ethical guidelines and maintain confidentiality.
Referring a patient to an attorney is a significant responsibility. By looking for these qualities, we can feel confident that our patients are in good hands and that their overall well-being is being prioritized, which is what we all strive for.
Dr. Tannaz Modaresi, D.C., is a state board-certified chiropractor and the founder and owner of Injury & Wellness Specialists of Georgia.
Are you a Georgia chiropractor working with a personal injury patient who needs legal counsel? Click here to visit our referral page.
