Detailed Answer: Checking Workers’ Compensation Medical Payments in Mississippi
When you receive medical treatment for a work‐related injury in Mississippi, your employer’s insurer must cover reasonable and necessary medical expenses under Miss. Code Ann. § 71-3-37. This statute requires the insurer to pay providers directly within 45 days of receiving an itemized bill. If payment is late, penalties apply under § 71-3-59.
Here is how to confirm that payments were applied correctly:
- Obtain an Explanation of Review (EOR) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB). Ask the workers’ comp insurer or third-party administrator for a written summary showing each medical bill, amount paid, and any balance. This document mirrors an EOB in health insurance and details payment dates, amounts, and denials or adjustments.
- Request itemized billing from your medical provider. Contact the doctor’s office or hospital billing department and ask for an itemized statement. Compare each line item with the EOR/EOB to confirm the insurer paid the billed amounts.
- Check payment records. Verify the insurer paid the provider by reviewing your bank statements or the provider’s payment logs. Insurers must pay providers directly; you should not receive a bill for covered services.
- Follow up on unpaid bills. If you spot unpaid or partially paid bills more than 45 days old, notify the insurer in writing. Under § 71-3-37(8), they owe interest on late payments and may incur penalties under § 71-3-59.
- Contact the Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission. If the insurer fails to respond or correct errors, file a complaint with the Commission’s Compliance Division. They can investigate late or missing payments.
Mississippi Statutes You Should Know
- Miss. Code Ann. § 71-3-37 – Payment of medical benefits (https://law.justia.com/codes/mississippi/2013/title-71/chapter-3/section-71-3-37/)
- Miss. Code Ann. § 71-3-59 – Penalties for late payment (https://law.justia.com/codes/mississippi/2013/title-71/chapter-3/section-71-3-59/)
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for guidance on your specific situation.
Helpful Hints
- Keep copies of all medical bills, EORs, and correspondence with your insurer.
- Note dates when you requested documents and when payments were due.
- Review your EOR/EOB for billing or coding errors that could delay payment.
- Address discrepancies promptly to avoid interest accrual or collection actions.
- Seek assistance from the Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission if the insurer remains unresponsive.