Pre-Existing Conditions In A Maryland Workers’ Compensation Claim
On-the job accidents can cause a dramatic worsening of any pre-existing physical or mental health conditions you suffer from. This can leave you unable to work while facing mounting medical expenses. Our Maryland workers’ compensation attorney shares common types of pre-existing conditions, how they can be aggravated at your current job, and your rights to benefits.
Common Health Conditions That Can Get Worse On The Job
Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that is available to people who suffer work-related injuries and illnesses. Employers are generally required under federal law to provide coverage, in addition to any optional health or retirement benefits. Healthcare.gov advises that while insurers are not legally entitled to deny insurance coverage due to pre-existing conditions, they are entitled to deny specific workers’ compensation or other types of claims.
Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for people with pre-existing conditions to get injured on the job or suffer a worsening of their overall health. Common types of conditions that could put you at risk include:
- Soft tissue injuries: Muscle and tendon strains or sprains and conditions such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome may get worse due to repetitive tasks and heavy lifting.
- Back and neck: Reaching up to high shelves, pushing or other moving heavy objects, and other office or warehouse tasks can aggravate prior back and neck injuries.
- Anxiety disorders and depression: The stress surrounding your job and a toxic work environment can worsen symptoms of mental health conditions.
- Breathing disorders: Exposure to hazardous substances on the job can cause asthma and other underlying breathing disorders to flare.
Your Rights To Maryland Workers’ Compensation Benefits
When on the job injuries or occupational diseases happen, it can aggravate pre-existing symptoms. As a result, you may suffer from more severe pain, swelling, and other symptoms, require more intensive medical care, and take longer to recover. Benefits available through the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC) provide a lifeline in this situation. Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to:
- Payment of all medical expenses related to your current condition;
- Reimbursement for lost wages while you recover;
- Payment for permanent disabilities you suffer;
- Job-retraining, if you are unable to return to your prior occupation.
These benefits are available for people with pre-existing conditions, but only if your symptoms are aggravated in your current job. Workers’ compensation does not pay for routine care required due to your underlying injury or illness.
Contact Our Maryland Workers’ Compensation Attorneys To Request A Consultation
Accidents, heavy lifting, and other dangerous conditions on the job can cause pre-existing conditions you have to flare. At Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP we provide the trusted legal guidance you need to get the workers’ compensation benefits you are entitled to.
Our Maryland workers’ compensation attorney protects your rights through the complex process of filing a claim. To get our team on your side, call or contact our office online and request a consultation today.
Sources:
healthcare.gov/glossary/pre-existing-condition#:~:text=A%20health%20problem%2C%20like%20asthma,condition%20or%20charge%20you%20more.
wcc.state.md.us/
