In California, the insurance company has the right to select the treating physician for workers' compensation claims. They must assign a doctor within five working days after the employee makes the request. However, they have ten days if the request is made by mail. If the insurance company fails to meet this deadline, the injured worker gains the right to choose their own doctor for treatment. Employees must understand this aspect of the workers' compensation process. This can have a significant impact on their medical care and recovery following a work-related injury or illness.