3 signs you cannot trust the company doctor

All companies should have a policy in place stating what should happen when a worker sustains an injury on the job. It is vital for certain industries in particular to have such a policy. In 2017, the jobs with the highest rates of workplace injuries were laborers, truck drivers and janitors. 

Many companies will have employees go to a company-specified doctor. You should listen to this doctor’s advice, but it is also a good idea to seek a second opinion if the doctor tells you anything you are skeptical of. There are signs a company doctor may not have your best interests at heart, so watch out when he or she does the following. 

1. Pressures you to return to work soon

Even if the injury is not as severe as first thought, a good doctor will want you to stay at home until he or she can perform more tests. Some doctors may pressure you to go back to work even if you still feel off. You should always put your health first. If you are still in pain, then you need to bring that to the attention of the doctor. 

2. Misrepresents your overall health

Some doctors will provide an inaccurate diagnosis. This is a form of medical malpractice, which is why you should always go to another doctor to get a second opinion. The company doctor may also overestimate your abilities and think you are physically capable of performing all your regular duties. No matter what the doctor says, you need to listen to what your body tells you. 

3. Fails to communicate

All of this comes down to a failure to communicate. When the doctor does not appear to listen to you when you say you have a certain symptom, then you cannot trust that professional. Companies cannot forbid you from going to another doctor. Always do what you believe is right for your health.