Ed,
You definetley need your own doc. WC doc. work for the carrier and your employer, they will never tell the complete story. If you look under pictures on this site. There is a diagram that talks about spread. You need a dr. who will document and treat all the areas. So when you go for your MMI hearing that is included. When you get your new dr. you should discuss SSDI.
I have to agree with Jimbo and Lit love, you should have an RSD atty. I have struggled with mine personally (not sure if its my meds or just a clash)
But I have heard of people getting screwed by wc and their atty.
Anyway, Welcome to the group. It's a great place to talk, rant or rave.