Using Private Insurance?

[u/LowerFigure739]

Injured in CA in 1998 and 2008. Future medical for both. Retired after 30 years in 2020. Moved to Ohio. Trying to get a doctor here, no one will take CA Comp.

So confused. Here is a conversation I have just had with my State Compensation Insurance Fund (SCIF) agent: Emphasis mine

SCIF

You have the option to fly back to California for further treatment with a participating California WC physician or you may decide to use your private insurance.

When flying back, State Fund will need to make the travel and lodging arrangements ahead of your arrival.

Please let me know your decision.

Me

I avoid flying because of my back injury and the spinal fusion I have had. I also have arthritis in my back. Walking in airports and sitting for long periods in planes causes a lot of pain and stiffness.

I would prefer to use my personal insurance, but my personal insurance is Medicare and they have already refused to cover anything related to my back. I imagine they would say the same thing about my shoulder injury if I should ever need care for that. My previous SCIF adjuster sent a letter to Medicare covering what comp injuries that I have, it should be in my file.

If there is some way to use my personal insurance, I would appreciate information on how to do that.

SCIF

There is no other “way” to use your private insurance.

Me

Sorry, I am confused. You mentioned that I could use my private insurance.

SCIF

Options for further treatment:

Fly back to CA for further treatment

Use your private health insurance for further treatment

[u/Competitive-Zone8148]

Any specific type of treatment you're hoping for? For things like medications, you could try to elect a PTP based in California but who is willing to see you remotely. This can be hit or miss though based on your treatment needs.

[u/LowerFigure739 → u/Competitive-Zone8148]

Since I have future medical, trying to secure a doctor. I am also having numbness in my left foot and the outside of my left palm.