I am hoping to be completely released without restrictions in mid January. At that time my WC settlement process will begin. I have been instructed to be very thorough with my list of items to be included: future medical, doctor visits, massage, chiropractic, gym membership, potential future injury or flareups. If anyone has gone through the process and/or has suggestions please let me know. I am hoping to cover all angles so I'm not out big $ in the future. Many thanks! http://adrsupport.org/groupee_common...on_biggrin.gif

I have never been through a wc settelment, but I know time is on your side. Do not rush into this just because you are going back to work. You are still early in your recovery and only time will tell what your needs are. Keep your claim open as long as they will let you.

Good luck
Pat

Back in the early 80's I was awarded Lifetime future medical on low back, Voc Rehab (paid for my Masters in Nursing), and a small settlement of cash. I had the option of reopening the case in 5 years should my back get worse and I did...

I don't know now how this is handled as my Lifetime benefits were very good about paying just about anything that used to be ordered, however, now that there has been some grave WC reform in the works and every petty thing has to go thru UR, I believe this has all changed. Of course it also depends on the insurance carrier. I trust you have a good WC attorney working for you?

I agree w/keeping your claim open as long as you can altho I'd have to say that Future Med is the most important thing you can get out the settlement, at least IMHO...

Thanks for the response. I figure there is no reason to rush the settlement since it is taking over 4 months just to get each case into review. I am wondering if there are any ADR spineys out there who have had any issues arise years after their ADR. Since I was 35 when I had my ADR, I am considering potential medical issues/needs for the next 50 years. Does anyone know the status or medical history of those who participated in the early stages of ADR? I am hoping to get a gauge or ballpark idea/figure regarding costs and/or procedures. Gratefully http://adrsupport.org/groupee_common...icon_smile.gif

This is an example of what I would think to ask for considering what I've had done to date..

2 discectomies
Long Term PM due to failed discectomy in '92 including various types of injections one might have to have for relief (depending on what has gone on)
Potential for TDR on remaining lumbar discs
Potential for Fusion on remaining Lumbar discs
Ongoing PT for potential probs with previously surgerized and remaining lumbar discs
Diagnostics (xrays, discograms, MRI,CT scan, Myelogram, EMG...)

I would take the costs of what you've had done so far, and project with room for inflation figured in...

I know you asked for ADRers to respond tho thought I'd just give you this since I've thought about a structured settlement for the future...

Crystal,
Have you been to the www.braintalk.org WC forum?
There's an injured attorney there, Tamara, that helps with WC questions. I was reading at this website about someone that had gotten advice from Tamara about purchasing a book (downloading avail) at www.nolo.com re Calif. WC ~
I looked over the chapters and it seems this might be something that would be helpful to you in terms of guidance re settlement or at least some knowledge/same page info...
Good luck, Maria

Maria,
Thanks for all of the info. I wasn't aware of the website and it certainly could help. My nurse case manager has been wonderful and has told me to be very explicit with my demands. Of course, she is not a part of the settlement process, but she has been a tremendous support. Your examples are helpful in getting me in the right frame of mind. Thanks so much! http://adrsupport.org/groupee_common...icon_smile.gif

Here's an update on my situation:

I have not been completely released yet, but that may occur at the end of January. Since my last post, I have obtained the services of an attorney specializing in workers' compensation. At this point in time, I have decided that I need to focus on regaing my previous life routines and am leaving the paperwork, litigation, etc. to the professional. While this means a portion of my settlement is shared right form the start, hopefully, my attorney will acquire a larger settlement to cover his expenses.

Good idea. Leave the legal stuff to the experts, tho I do caution you to be aware of what is going on as you are still the best person to know what you have been thru, what could lie ahead, and what might be necessary ...
Never entirely leave things up to someone else..

Yes, Maria, very good advice to heed. I plan on remaining just as vigilant, but it's good to have a professional warrior on the battlefront alongside.