Does the nurse case manager get the results of your medical test before you do.

When the insurance company assigns a nurse case manager (NCM) to your case, this can be helpful. On the other hand the NCM can just be an advocate for the insurer. When you are first injured, you are entitled to choose a doctor from a panel of three in Virginia. However, once you accept the doctor provided by the insurer you waive that right especially if you have accepted the specialist for more than 30 days. With a back injury, sending one to physical therapy and then an MRI is standard protocol. Once we are over 35 our discs start to degenerate in our back due to the aging process. Your doctor may be saying that is what he is seeing on the MRI. If you are having foot numbness, then this usually indicates pressure on the spine from a bulging, herniated or ruptured disc. An epidural is used to calm down the nerve for a period of time. It may be all you need.  You always can obtain a second opinion if you want to pay for it. The insurer is not obligated to pay for a second opinion. The insurer can do this if it feels a need to do it. For further information, you can look at www.geraldlutkenhaus.com.