Often after an accepted work injury and subsequent return to work a client is denied treatment when their provider is told the file is “closed”. This is a tactic used by insurance carriers to avoid payment for treatment. The file may be “closed” in the insurance company’s records, meaning they do not have it assigned to an adjuster as an active file, but there is a difference between their internal procedures and the law. Most providers will not bill if told the file is closed and needed treatment or even prescriptions are often not obtained. Once there is an accepted work injury, the medical portion is open and payable as a matter of law indefinitely and can only be “closed” by agreement, Judicial Order or a formal process called “Utilization Review” which, if not appealed, only applies to the provider reviewed. Do not wilt and go away as the carrier wants when told the “case/file is closed”. Seek counsel for a legal analysis of your rights. ~ John Dogum, Esq.