Resources

Straight answers about medical care under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. Written plainly and sourced from the Department of Labor.

Understanding the System

What Is the LHWCA?

The federal workers' comp law for maritime workers. What it covers, what it pays for, and who pays it.

lhwca-coverage-terminal-waterline-boundary

Who Is Covered Under the LHWCA?

Coverage depends on the work you do and where you were hurt. Who qualifies, and who's excluded.

What's Next After a Work Injury

Steps after you're hurt. Reporting, treatment, authorization, and the two deadlines that matter the most.

Request an Appointment →

Getting Treatment

lhwca-choose-your-doctor-worker-decision

Choose Your Own Doctor

There's no network under this Act. You pick your physician and your first choice is the one that counts.

What is Form LS-1?

The form that authorizes your treatment. How to get one, and what to do if your employer won't provide it.

lhwca-medical-authorization-carrier-approval

Medical Authorization: How Treatment Gets Approved

How treatment gets approved, what your doctor can order without asking twice, and what to do when a carrier says no.

lhwca-diagnostic-testing-spine-shoulder-films

Diagnostic Testing Under

Imaging is a covered benefit. What gets ordered when, and why objective findings matter so much in a federal claim.

lhwca-physical-therapy-shoulder-rehabilitation

Physical Therapy Under the LHWCA

Physical therapy is covered. How it's authorized, how long it lasts, and how it connects to your work restrictions.

Request an Appointment →

Your claim and Your Work

Work Restrictions and Light Duty

Your restrictions decide whether you work and what you're paid. Why "light duty" isn't good enough on a container yard.

Return-to-Work Documentation

What paperwork you need to get back on the job, who needs a copy, and how to avoid losing shifts to delays.

What Is Form LS-204?

The progress report your doctor files while you're under care. Why benefits stall when it stops arriving.

MMI Ratings

What maximum medical improvements means, and how it is evaluated including why back injuries work differently.

lhwca-our-office-medical-reporting-process

How Our Office Handles the Medical Side

Reports on time, authorization requests that get approved, restrictions your employer can use. What do, and on what schedule.

Have questions about your claim or need a medical evaluation?

Request an Appointment →

Prefer to talk? Call your nearest office

Torrance (310) 540-8333

San Diego (619) 230-5228