Employed individuals typically have workers’ compensation coverage that protects them when they get injured on the job. If they cut themselves with a kitchen knife or fall and break an arm, they can potentially obtain workers’ compensation benefits.
Workers’ compensation coverage may pay for an injured worker’s medical care and replace a portion of their lost wages if they require time off to recover. Those hurt in a specific incident on the job often recognize immediately that they have a right to request benefits. The clear connection between an incident at work and their injuries may give them confidence when pursuing benefits.
Other workers are not as fortunate. They may be diagnosed with a repetitive strain injury, but they may not feel confident that they qualify for benefits. Does workers’ compensation apply to occupational diseases and medical conditions caused by repeated job tasks?
Repetitive strain injuries can qualify
There are many types of repetitive strain injuries that workers may develop depending on their job responsibilities. Those who type or grip tools all day could develop carpal tunnel syndrome. Manufacturing employees and nurses might develop repetitive strain injuries in their joints from lifting and twisting.
Typically, workers need to connect their diagnosed repetitive strain injuries with their job responsibilities. Provided that they can show that their work obligations led to their symptoms, they may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
What if employers dispute their claims?
In scenarios where there is not a clear precipitating incident leading to a worker’s diagnosis, their employer may have grounds to question the validity of their benefits claim. Those in need of workers’ compensation sometimes face pushback from employers or insurance providers.
If there are questions about the origins of a worker’s condition, they may have to submit to a functional capacity evaluation or similar test. These in-depth medical examinations help validate the presence of functional limitations and other symptoms. The medical professional evaluating the worker can help affirm that work contributed to or caused their injuries.
Professionals facing complicated workers’ compensation claims may need help during the application process or in the event of an appeal. Establishing a connection between a diagnosis and their job responsibilities is one of the first steps toward benefits for someone dealing with a job-related medical issue.
