Georgia's Workers Compensation

Georgia's Workers' Compensation laws define the responsibility of the employer to provide prompt medical and disability benefits for injuries sustained on the job by workers, resulting in partial or total incapacity or death. In return, the employer is shielded from tort liability for these injuries. Georgia employers with three or more persons, part-time or full time, shall provide workers' compensation insurance coverage. Exempted officers of corporations or exempted members of limited liability companies shall not reduce the number of employees for this purpose.

Employers may select from two Workers' Compensation insurance options.

First, a Traditional Panel of 6 Physicians may be used. The minimum panel shall consist of at least six physicians, including an orthopedic surgeon and no more than two physicians from industrial clinics. The panel shall include one minority physician, whenever feasible. An appropriate notice (WC-P1) must be posted which lists these board members.

Second, the employer may choose a Workers' Compensation Managed Care Organization (WC/MCO) which will provide all necessary medical treatment for workers' compensation injuries. Employees must be furnished with a publication which explains in detail how to access the services of the WC/MCO and the appropriate notice (WC-P3) must be displayed which lists all required contact information.

If an employer fails to comply with these rules, the employee may be able to select any physician that he/she chooses and may result in penalties and attorney fees.