Florida workers’ compensation may cover travel to authorized medical care for your work injury. If you drive, the law ties mileage reimbursement to the rate Florida sets for state employee travel. Because the rate may change, confirm the current amount with your insurer or the Florida Division of Workers’ Compensation before submitting a request.
Which medical trips qualify?
Your trip must be for authorized care related to your work injury. Covered travel may include:
- Travel to an authorized doctor
- Travel for diagnostic testing
- Travel to a pharmacy to fill a prescription
Florida law calculates mileage from your home or workplace, whichever is closer to the provider. Other costs, such as parking or public transit, may also qualify depending on the circumstances of the trip. The Florida workers’ compensation statute covers travel expenses related to authorized care.
What should you record for each trip?
A clear log helps the insurer review your request. For every appointment, record:
- The appointment date
- The medical office’s name and street address
- Your starting point and destination
- The total miles traveled there and back
- Any receipts for transit, taxi or parking costs
Submit your records through the insurer’s required method, such as mail, an online portal or fax and keep a copy. Detailed records can reduce delays if the insurer questions where your trip began or how far you traveled.
What if the insurer delays or disputes payment?
Ask the insurer what information it needs and keep copies of your request and supporting records. If it denies reimbursement or does not respond, a Florida workers’ compensation attorney can review the issue and explain your options.
Mileage reimbursement is one part of a broader workers’ comp claim that may also include coverage for authorized treatment and lost wages. Keep your mileage log with your other claim records to document travel costs tied to your injury. Other workers’ compensation benefits may also apply.