🏥 What Happens If My Employer Is Self-Insured and Directs Medical Care in Arizona?
- Christopher S. Norton, Esq.
- Jul 12
- 2 min read
If you’ve been injured on the job in Arizona, one of the first questions you might have is: “Can I choose my own doctor?” The answer depends on whether your employer is self-insured and whether they have the legal authority to direct your medical care.
Let’s break it down.
🔹 What Does “Self-Insured” Mean?
In Arizona, some employers are approved by the Industrial Commission of Arizona (ICA) to self-insure their workers’ compensation claims. This means they don’t buy insurance from a traditional carrier—they pay for claims directly.
These employers must meet strict financial and administrative requirements and are listed in the ICA’s official registry.
🔹 What Is “Directed Medical Care”?
Some self-insured employers also have the right to direct medical care. This means they can choose the doctor or medical provider you must see for treatment of your work-related injury.
If your employer has this authority:
You must go to the provider they select for your initial and ongoing treatment.
If you go to a different doctor without approval, your treatment may not be covered.
🔹 How Do I Know If My Employer Directs Care?
The ICA maintains a list of self-insured employers that includes a column labeled “Direct Medical Care?” If there’s an “a” in that column, it means the employer has the right to direct your care.
Some examples of employers with this authority include:
Banner Health
Costco Wholesale Corporation
FedEx Ground Package Systems, Inc.
Walmart Associates, Inc.
Intel Corporation
City of Phoenix
SRP (Salt River Project)
You can check the full list in the ICA’s official document or ask your HR department for clarification.
🔹 What Are My Rights?
Even if your employer directs care, you still have rights:
You’re entitled to reasonable and necessary medical treatment.
If you’re unhappy with the care you’re receiving, you may, under specific circumstances, be able to request a change of physician—but you must follow the proper procedures.
You can always contact the ICA’s Claims Division or Ombudsman’s Office for help understanding your options.
✅ Bottom Line
If your employer is self-insured and authorized to direct medical care, you’ll need to follow their instructions on where to get treatment. But that doesn’t mean you’re powerless—Arizona law still protects your right to quality care and fair treatment.
Need help figuring out if your employer is on the list or how to request a different doctor? I can help you look it up or walk you through the process.
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