Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. You should consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation.
Detailed Answer
If you’ve received medical treatment for a workplace injury in Arkansas, you have the right to confirm that your workers’ compensation carrier has properly paid your medical providers. Under the Arkansas Workers’ Compensation Act, insurers must pay or deny a medical bill within 30 days of receipt (Ark. Code Ann. § 11-9-508). Here’s how to verify payments:
- Request an Explanation of Benefits (EOB): Contact your workers’ compensation adjuster and ask for a written EOB or payment summary. This document shows which services were paid, the amount covered, and any remaining balance.
- Review Provider Statements: Ask your medical provider for copies of billing statements. Compare the billed charges against payments received from the insurer. The statement should note payments by the workers’ compensation carrier.
- Check Your Online Portal: Many carriers offer an online claims portal. Log in to view payment histories, remittance advice, and EOBs in real time.
- Contact Your Medical Provider’s Billing Office: If you see a balance you believe should be covered, call the provider’s billing department. They can confirm whether they have received payment from the insurer or if a claim is pending.
- Follow Up in Writing: Send a written request to the insurer and your medical provider. Keep copies for your records. Under Ark. Code Ann. § 11-9-508, failure to pay timely may trigger penalties and interest against the insurer.
- Escalate to the Arkansas Workers’ Compensation Commission: If you cannot obtain clear payment information, file an inquiry or a Form N through the Commission’s e-Filing system. The Commission can compel your carrier to produce remittance details.
Helpful Hints
- Keep a dedicated folder for all workers’ compensation correspondence, invoices, and EOBs.
- Note dates you requested information and follow up within two weeks if you receive no response.
- Ask your provider to mark bills as “Workers’ Compensation Claim” to avoid billing mistakes.
- Document phone calls: save names, dates, and summaries of conversations with adjusters or billing staff.
- If an insurer improperly denies or delays payment, you may be entitled to 12% interest per annum on overdue amounts (Ark. Code Ann. § 11-9-508).
- Consider consulting an attorney if disputes persist or bills go to collections despite coverage.