Lefthanded:

Thanks for your expertise; it's very useful to read! I have two questions for you (I just had my second QME yesterday).

1) I hired a lawyer a year ago, when I first got the MRI results showing spinal cord impingement by a LARGE osteophyte, and my employer's orthopedic surgeon said it was 90% work-related. The spur is at C5-6, so in a very BAD place. I want a neurosurgeon to at least be a surgery partner, in substitution for or in tandem with, their orthopedic surgeon. In CA, to your knowledge, do I ahve the right to demand a neurosurgeon?

2) I now have 3 out of 3 drs. (who have seen the MRI) agree that I need surgery. If I NEED it imminently (before the legalities are ironed out), is it possible for me to have the surgery regardless, and then have either myself or my regular health insurer SUE the WC organization to recoup costs? I'm afraid I may have to delay care due to concerns over who pays for it...and that would not be in my best interests.

Thanks.

Sandi