Do I need authorization for a work-related injury visit?

Requirements vary by workers' compensation carrier, employer, and jurisdiction. Confirm the authorization and referral process with the carrier and the office before the visit.

How quickly can I be seen?

Scheduling depends on authorization and current availability. Call the office for the current timeframe.

How long will I be away from work?

Time away from work depends on the diagnosis, treatment, procedure, job demands, and individual recovery; no fixed timeline applies to every case.

Will the office communicate with a case manager?

Communication and documentation follow the applicable authorization and care-coordination process. Confirm the current workflow with the office.

Work-Related Spine Injury Evaluations

A work-related spine evaluation reviews the diagnosis, objective findings, imaging, prior treatment, job demands, and current authorization. Scheduling, communication, documentation, and return-to-work planning depend on the applicable workers' compensation process.

Before Requesting an Evaluation

Confirm which clinician is authorized, whether a referral is required, where records should be sent, and whether the carrier has approved the visit. The public appointment form is for contact and routing information only; do not enter medical or claim details.

What to Bring

Claim and authorization information
The actual MRI or CT images when available, plus the reports
Records from prior treatment related to the injury
A current medication list
A description of job duties, including lifting, driving, climbing, repetitive tasks, or safety-sensitive work
Current work restrictions or status documentation

What the Evaluation Addresses

The evaluation is intended to clarify the diagnosis, determine whether objective findings and imaging explain the symptoms, review prior treatment, and discuss reasonable next steps. Many work-related spine conditions are managed without surgery. When surgery is considered, the discussion should explain the proposed operation, alternatives, risks, expected restrictions, and uncertainty.

Work-Status Planning

Work recommendations depend on the diagnosis, neurologic findings, treatment, medication effects, job demands, and recovery. Light duty, modified duty, driving, lifting, and return to unrestricted work require individualized assessment rather than a universal timetable.

Confirm the Current Workflow

Greenberg Spine is now open in Fort Wayne. Workers’ compensation authorization, case-manager communication, documentation turnaround, and scheduling workflows should be confirmed directly with the office before relying on them.

Call (260) 484-8551 for the current appointment process or use the new-patient request without including protected medical information.

This is general educational information, not medical advice. A clinical evaluation is the only way to know what’s right for you.