Don't become the victim of an insurer "Doctor Shopping"

Written on the 14th of July 2010 by Alison Mayo

If you're involved in a motor vehicle accident or injured at work and make a claim, expect the insurance company to require you to see one of their doctors for examination.

This of itself is not a problem...in fact it is quite reasonable for the insurer to have you examined by one of its doctors before it agrees to pay your claim. What is unreasonable is when the insurance company doesn't like its doctors' opinion and it arranges for you to be seen by another of its doctors. Some insurers will continue this process until they receive a doctor's opinion they can rely on to refuse to pay your claim...we know this as "doctor shopping".

Too often we get contacted by clients for advice after they have already attended numerous doctors for the insurer...and the damage has been done.

Don't let this happen to you... if an insurance company contacts you for the purpose of attending one of its doctors for examination, contact me immediately and I'll let you know if you are required to attend the appointment.

If you have any questions, please call on 02 4904 8000 or email.

Disclaimer - This article is offered for general information purposes only. It is not offered as and does not constitute specific legal advice or opinion. The accuracy of the information is not guaranteed. You should not act or rely upon any of the information contained within this article without seeking the advice of a qualified solicitor who specialises in the particular area of expertise and jurisdiction that you require.