How Long Does it Take Workers’ Compensation to Approve Surgery?

When you’re injured on the job and your doctor recommends surgery, you likely want to move forward with treatment as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, when workers’ compensation is involved, the approval process for surgery can be more complicated and more delayed than most people expect.

At Atkinson Gerber Law Office, our seasoned workers’ compensation lawyers understand how frustrating these delays can be. We’ve helped countless Minnesota workers manage the system and get the medical treatment they need without unnecessary setbacks. Call us today at 651-390-9219 for a free consultation.

Typical Timeline for Surgical Approval

State law requires employers to cover surgeries reasonably necessary to manage or cure a job-related injury or condition. There is no exact timeline for how long it takes workers’ compensation to approve surgery. However, most requests are processed within seven to 30 days, depending on several factors:

• Whether your claim is accepted or disputed: If your claim is still being investigated or has been denied, the insurer may not act on the surgery request until that’s resolved. This can significantly delay the process.
• The type of surgery requested: Some procedures are more straightforward than others. For example, a common orthopedic surgery, like a rotator cuff repair, may get quicker approval than a complex spinal procedure.
• Medical documentation and provider cooperation: Your doctor must submit detailed records, diagnostic imaging, and a formal request explaining why surgery is medically necessary. Any missing or unclear documentation can slow things down.
• Independent medical examination (IME): The insurance company may require you to attend an IME before approving the surgery. This can delay the decision by weeks, especially if the IME doctor disagrees with your treating physician.

What You Can Do to Speed Things Up

While some delays are out of your control, there are a few steps you can take to help the process move faster:

• Follow up with your doctor’s office to ensure they submitted all necessary forms and records to the insurer.
• Obtain a copy of the referral YOURSELF, before you leave the doctor’s office. Then email or fax the request to the insurer so you can prove when the request was sent. The insurer;s time limits START when you can prove this referral was sent. The doctor’s offices don’t keep good track of this.
• Communicate with the claims adjuster, or better yet, have an attorney do so on your behalf to ensure nothing is delayed.
• Hire a workers’ compensation lawyer early in the process. A compassionate workers’ compensation attorney from our firm can put pressure on the insurer, request a hearing if needed, and ensure your medical rights are protected under Minnesota law.

At Atkinson Gerber Law Office, we often intervene when insurance companies drag their feet. We know how to push back when delays are used as a tactic to avoid paying for surgery, and we act fast.

Don’t Let Delays Put Your Recovery at Risk

Waiting too long for surgery can make your condition worse, prolong your time away from work, and increase your pain and suffering. If your surgery has been delayed, denied, or you’re unsure where things stand, don’t wait to get legal help.

Our workers’ compensation attorneys offer free consultations and can meet you at home, in the hospital, or by phone—whatever is easiest for you. With over 50 years of combined experience and firsthand knowledge of what injured workers go through, we’re here to fight for your health, your benefits, and your future.

Contact Atkinson Gerber Law Office Today

If you’re facing a surgical delay due to a work injury, call us today at 651-390-9219 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Atkinson Gerber Law Office serves injured workers across the Twin Cities and throughout Minnesota. Let our experienced workers’ compensation lawyers take on the insurance company while you focus on healing.

We serve Minneapolis, St. Paul, and throughout Minnesota. Visit any of our offices at:

Atkinson Gerber Law Office – Minneapolis Office

10 S 5th Street Suite 955
Minneapolis, MN 55402

Toll Free: (866) 635 9200
Phone: (651) 412 1470

Atkinson Gerber Law Office – St. Paul’s Office

6 Pinetree Drive Suite 225
St Paul, MN 55112

Toll Free: (866) 635 9200
Phone: 651-333-3636