Workers’ compensation provides benefits to employees who suffer an injury or become ill as a result of their job. It also includes situations where there is an aggravation of a pre-existing condition.
Already having a medical condition can complicate workers’ compensation claims. However, it will not necessarily disqualify a person from receiving benefits.
Partial coverage
One way a pre-existing condition may impact workers’ compensation benefits is the amount of coverage. For example, if a worker with a pre-existing back injury suffers a work-related back injury, the workers’ compensation benefits may only cover the portion of the injury related to the work incident.
Potential complications
In some cases, a pre-existing condition may make it more difficult to prove the occurrence of a work-related injury or illness. Insurance providers may argue that the symptoms are due to this existing health issue rather than the work incident.
To strengthen their claim, employees should provide thorough documentation of their medical history. It can help to have records that show the proper management of the pre-existing condition prior to the work accident. It also helps to have proof that distinguishes between the old and new conditions.
Prohibited actions
Employers and insurance providers cannot discriminate against employees with pre-existing conditions. They cannot deny workers’ compensation benefits solely because they had a medical issue in the past.
Pre-existing conditions should not bar employees from receiving benefits. Employees with pre-existing conditions should be aware of their rights and responsibilities under workers’ compensation laws to protect their interests and claim benefits rightfully due to them.