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Ordinarily, if you needed a medical exam to diagnose a new workplace injury or assess an ongoing condition, you would go to the doctor’s office. However, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, you may have a virtual appointment instead. The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation temporarily changed its policies in March to allow telemedicine appointments originating in the worker’s home.

Previously, the patient had to be in a hospital, a nursing home, a private area at the employer’s location or the provider’s office or clinic. The new rules allow for greater flexibility during this time and ensure injured employees get treatment and claims continue to be approved. The temporary policy also permits telephone visits with managed care facilities. The changes are expected to remain in effect as long as Ohio is subject to a state of emergency declaration.

However, this doesn’t mean that challenges won’t occur. You may experience problems in getting medical attention or having your claim approved in a timely manner. If so, a Cincinnati workers’ compensation lawyer can help you get the benefits you deserve. You shouldn’t be deterred if you encounter problems.

If it’s your first time seeing a doctor via a laptop or tablet, you may not be sure to expect. To ensure that the session is productive and supportive of your claim for workers’ comp benefits, we’ve put together some tips.

Take the Time to Prepare

Just as you should if you were going to the doctor’s office, make some notes about the things you want to talk about. List your symptoms and write down how long you’ve been experiencing them and how they limit your ability to work. If you have questions about how long it’ll take for you to recover or how your condition will be treated, you should also make a note of these. Given the novelty of a virtual visit, you may not remember everything you want to talk about.

Have Your Device Ready

The doctor may use a website or an app to facilitate the visit. If possible, find out what it will be before the visit and familiarize yourself with how it works. You should also make sure that your webcam and microphone are working properly, and your device is charged if necessary. Avoid using a cellphone with a small screen and try as much as possible to have a stable internet connection.

Treat the Visit Like an In-Person Visit

Sit in a quiet spot and ensure you’re fully in the frame and looking directly at the doctor who should also be fully present. Speak normally and let the doctor know if you’re not hearing them well or you don’t understand something. Virtual visits look and feel different, but the doctor is still supposed to act professionally and help you to the best of their ability. Before the session ends, make sure you’re clear about what the next steps are.

Make Thorough Notes

If the doctor gives you instructions or managing your condition or tells you how to take your medication, be sure to write it down. You may not remember it otherwise and you won’t be given a physical prescription at the end of the session. Avoid the possibility of having to call the doctor again and make sure you have all the relevant information before you conclude the visit.

Feel Free to Have Someone Sit on the Session

If you’re not too au fait with technology, ask someone to attend the virtual session with you. They can assist you if you need to adjust your webcam or send a file to the doctor. Similarly, if you usually have your spouse or friend accompany you to medical appointments, invite them to your home on the day of the visit. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you’re receiving medical information so having some support can make a big difference.

Reach Out to a Cincinnati Workers’ Comp Lawyer If You Need Help

Despite the ongoing COVID-19 situation, you have the right to treatment and benefits if you get injured on the job. Our team remains committed to ensuring this happens. If you can’t get an independent medical exam or the treatment you need because you can’t see a doctor, we may be able to help you. Call our Cincinnati workers’ compensation attorneys today to schedule a consultation where you can discuss your situation with us and benefit from expert legal advice. You don’t have to handle this alone.

Many people have an old injury that’s no longer symptomatic or an illness that’s under control. After months or years without problems, issues can resurface. Sometimes, the problem gets worse because of a job-related accident or situation. Under normal circumstances, people who suffer work-related injuries and illnesses are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. However, it can be challenging to get your claim approved if you have a pre-existing injury.

Let’s say you slipped and fell in the office and immediately, you experienced excruciating back pain. When you went to the doctor, you learned that your pain resulted from a herniated disc. You’d previously suffered a similar injury in a car accident but thanks to physical therapy and medication, you were still able to work. The new injury, however, is so painful that you can no longer perform your duties. At this point, you may worry that you’ll be ineligible for benefits.

Workplace injuries that are linked pre-existing conditions are far from black and white. Whether it’s a chronic health problem or an old injury, your employer is likely to challenge your claim. The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation can also deny parts of your claim. However, it’s not impossible to receive benefits under certain circumstances. If you’re unsure about how to proceed, you should reach out to a Cincinnati workers’ comp attorney for guidance.

When Workers’ Comp Cover A Pre-Existing Condition

The BWC will look at two factors when deciding whether your injury qualifies for compensation. These are relatedness and medical necessity. Relatedness means that your job-related injury or illness substantially aggravated your pre-existing condition. The BWC will seek to determine whether your condition would have been exacerbated were it not for your job. Going back to our earlier scenario, you would need to prove that were it not for your fall, you would not have experienced additional back problems. If you can successfully prove this, you may be able to get compensation for your injuries.

There are some pre-existing conditions that wouldn’t typically be covered by workers comp. However, when they affect the treatment of a covered injury, they may be authorized. This is known as co-morbidity. Let’s illustrate this with a different scenario in which a worker has diabetes. This condition isn’t considered an occupational disease and it’s, therefore, not covered by workers’ comp.

However, the worker suffers a laceration during a workplace accident. This is a covered injury. Because the individual is a diabetic, the injury takes an unusual amount of time to heal. In such a situation, the BWC may cover the treatment of the pre-existing condition while the worker recovers. As soon as the laceration heals and the employee goes back to work, they won’t be able to make a diabetes-related claim.

The Challenge of Proving “Substantial Aggravation”

Before, 2006 an increase in symptoms that required medical treatment was considered aggravation. Typically, the worker only had to:

• Testify that they were experiencing more pain
• Show that they were seeking treatment

This was usually enough to secure benefits under the workers’ comp system. However, the standards have changed. To get benefits, the worker now needs to show that their condition was substantially aggravated. This puts an increased burden on the employee since they have to present documented evidence of their worsened condition.

Medical professionals need to present clinical findings or test results that indicate a previous injury is now symptomatic or a chronic condition has worsened. Each case of injury or illness is different so the required evidence will vary.

When you go to the doctor with the aggravation of a pre-existing condition, be sure to mention all your symptoms. Don’t leave out anything even some of the things you’ve experienced seem minor. You will need a comprehensive report from your doctor to prove you are entitled to compensation.

Get Legal Help from a Workers’ Comp Lawyer in Cincinnati Today

If you want to improve your chances of getting the compensation you deserve, you’ll need a lawyer. It can be tough to get workers’ comp claims approved even without a pre-existing condition. However, you don’t have to handle the situation alone. Our workers’ comp attorneys in Cincinnati will work hard to protect your rights and ensure you don’t suffer undue hardship. Not being able to work and earn a wage can affect your household significantly. Call us today to schedule a consultation and get an expert legal opinion on your case.

Many people in Cleveland, Ohio experience back pain because of their job duties. Maybe you routinely lift heavy packages, or you move office equipment or carry out other manual duties. Even standing for long periods and not doing much else can harm your back. Very often, back pain requires just a little rest or a change in the way you work. However, some workers in Ohio end up with long-lasting injuries that prevent them from working for some time.

If you have debilitating back pain that’s causing you to miss work, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. However, it can be difficult to get the benefits you’re due. Since back injuries can occur in several different ways, you may have a hard time proving that your pain is work-related. Some workers are especially at risk for back pain. These include warehouse employees, healthcare professionals, retail workers, and construction workers. However, since falls or poorly designed office furniture can also cause back pain, any worker in Ohio can be affected. If you’re injured at work, you should contact our Ohio worker’s compensation attorneys right away.

Showing That a Back Injury Occurred While on the Job

You need to show that your injuries are a direct result of your job. This can be difficult if you don’t know the steps to take.Your employer may argue that you’re in pain simply because you’re getting older or you had a pre-existing condition. To improve your chance of having your workers’ comp claim accepted, you’ll need to hire a competent Cleveland workers’ compensation lawyer.

If you plan to file a workers’ comp claim, there are a few things you need to do from the outset. The first is to thoroughly document your condition. As soon as you begin to experience pain that you suspect is job-related, take note of the date and time and how severe the pain is. In some cases, you may experience sudden pain when carrying out a particular activity but other times, the discomfort can increase gradually.

In addition to documenting your symptoms, you also need to get a professional diagnosis. A medical report is necessary if you want your claim to be considered. However, you should know that doctors can’t always tell exactly why a person is experiencing pain. That’s why these types of claims are often disputed.

You must promptly inform your employer about your injuries and initiate a claim if you believe your injuries are job-related. You will only have a limited time within which to do so. Also, the sooner you file the claim, the easier it will be to link it to your job.

Workers’ Comp Benefits You Can Access in Cleveland

There are two categories of benefits that you can claim under Ohio’s workers’ compensation system. Unlike a personal injury claim, you can’t seek compensation for pain and suffering. Instead, you can get medical benefits and wage benefits. You have the right to timely, high-quality care from the doctor of your choice. However, your employer’s managed care organization will work with the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation to oversee your treatment. A workers’ comp lawyer can help to ensure you get compensation for your medical expenses and represent your interests in the event of a dispute or denial. Even though these cases are supposed to be simple, they can get complicated and you may need assistance.

Wage benefits will be calculated based on your average weekly wage. The amount you’re eligible to receive will also depend on the type of injury you received. You may be entitled to total disability benefits or partial disability benefits. Workers may also be entitled to a lump-sum settlement or vocational rehabilitation and living maintenance depending on the circumstances. Vocational rehabilitation prepares injured workers to return to the same job and employer, a new job with the same employer or a new job in a different field. Maintenance compensation helps to relieve the financial burden on the employee while they undergo training.

Get Expert Legal Advice on Your Case

Back pain can be hard to treat and sometimes, it takes a long time to get relief. Fortunately, workers’ compensation benefits can help you to avoid extreme financial hardship. Without it, you would have to bear the full burden of medical expenses and lost wages. The key is to work with experienced workers’ comp attorneys in Cleveland to ensure your rights are protected. We’ll help you to accurately calculate your average weekly wage, confirm the benefits for which you qualify, and guide you through the entire process. Call us today to schedule a consultation with a member of our team.

The workers’ compensation scheme in Ohio was designed to help employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. To qualify for benefits, you must prove that you were hurt while performing your job. If you have a valid claim, the law says you’re entitled to medical benefits that cover the cost of doctor’s visits, treatments, and other injury-related expenses.

The workers’ comp scheme allows employees to claim compensation without having to go through the expensive and lengthy process of litigation. With limited exceptions, it doesn’t matter who was responsible for your injuries. Furthermore, you don’t have to prove your employer was negligent in any way. However, many injured workers in Cincinnati find that they benefit greatly from hiring a Cincinnati workers’ comp lawyer. The process of getting benefits can be more complicated than it at first seems and you’ll want to ensure you get everything to which you’re entitled.

When to Seek Treatment

Even if your workplace injury or illness seems minor, you should seek prompt medical attention. Whether you fell or were exposed to toxic chemicals, you should see a doctor. Getting prompt treatment helps you in two ways. Firstly, it can help you to recover faster. Secondly, it helps to prove that your injury is related to your job. If you wait too late to seek treatment, your employer may challenge how you got your injuries. Never downplay your injuries or try to stick it out if you don’t feel well. This can affect your ability to claim benefits or reduce the amount you can get.

When you go to the doctor, be sure to tell the truth about your symptoms. Don’t exaggerate or leave out details. While imaging and tests can detect some conditions, doctors rely heavily on patients’ descriptions of their symptoms to reach other diagnoses. Even minor or fleeting pains or sensations can be important so don’t be afraid to mention them. As any Cincinnati worker’s compensation attorney will tell you, you may later discover that these issues are indicators of a serious problem. You should also avoid speculating about your injuries or saying you’re okay when you’re really not.

The Process of Getting Workers’ Compensation Medical Benefits

Workers’ compensation medical benefits cover both prescription drugs and medical treatment. When your claim is approved, the medical professionals who treated you must submit their bills to your employer’s managed care organization (MCO). After the MCO reviews the documents, the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) will pay them.

You will likely have to fill some prescriptions before your claim gets approved and you’ll have to foot the cost initially. However, you should be reimbursed when your claim is approved. If you have to get more medication after your claim is approved, you should notify the pharmacist that your prescription is covered by workers’ compensation. That way, the pharmacy will bill the MCO. You should avoid purchasing your medication using health insurance since co-payments can’t be reimbursed.

Why Hiring A Workers’ Comp Lawyer is Essential

You need to work with someone who understands the system and will help you secure the best possible outcome. While you will be assigned a caseworker by the BWC, that individual won’t be looking out for your interests. They probably won’t inform you of all the benefits you can get if you don’t ask. They also won’t assist you in appealing if your claim is denied.

When you have Cincinnati workers’ comp lawyer on your side, they’ll take care of all the legal and administrative issues. You won’t have to worry about if you’ll be able to pay your medical bills. You can simply focus on getting better and getting back to work. It’s important that you contact an attorney as soon as possible after your injury or diagnosis.

Call an Ohio Workers’ Comp Lawyer Today

If you want to ensure you get the compensation you deserve, contact our team today. We have years of experience in handling all kinds of workplace injuries and illnesses. Whether you’re dealing with broken bones, burns, or a repetitive strain injury, we can help. If you contact us early, we’ll ensure your claim is filed correctly and supported by evidence. If for some reason the claim is denied, we’ll help you to fight for what you deserve. You don’t have to go through the workers’ comp claim process on your own. Take care of yourself and your family while we handle everything else. Call us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you.

If you’ve suffered an injury at work in Cleveland, Ohio, you’ll want to do everything possible to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Part of this involves ensuring that your claim form is filled out correctly and that you submit the necessary supporting documents. A simple typo won’t usually prevent you from getting benefits. However, there are some bigger mistakes that can cost you.

That’s why it’s so important that you hire an experienced Cleveland workers’ comp lawyer. They will assist you in providing all the required information and prevent you from making errors. Let’s look at some of the things you need to ensure you do.

Report Your Injury to Your Employer

You need to notify your employer that you suffered a workplace injury or you have been diagnosed with an occupational illness. This opens an investigation into the incident. The outcome of your employer’s investigation can be used to support the claim you will submit to the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. This will help to show that your injury or illness is work-related and you didn’t acquire it by other means.

File Your Claim Within the Deadline

You typically have one year from the date of the accident to submit your application for workers’ comp. However, if you have an occupational disease, you have two years from the date the illness was diagnosed as being work-related, or the date it caused disability. The later date applies. Most employees file on time because they’re eager to get compensation. However, some wait too long and before they know it, the deadline has passed. Employees who delay filing may do so because they fear their employer will retaliate or that if they take time off work, they will lose on their wages.

Follow the Doctors’ Orders

It’s possible for your employer to challenge your claim. They may argue that you aren’t so ill that you can’t work. They may look for every possible sign that you’re faking or exaggerating your injuries. If your doctor advised you to get a particular treatment or refrain from certain activities, you must do what they say. As Cleveland workers’ compensation lawyers will tell you, you also need to keep all your appointments and fill all the prescriptions. Otherwise, you give your employer an opportunity to reject your claim.

Save All the Paperwork Relating to Your Condition

Your application for workers’ comp must be supported by medical evidence. This can include medical records, hospital discharge papers, prescriptions, and therapy notes. The more evidence you can present, the more likely it is that your claim will be approved.

Contact a Cleveland Workers’ Comp Lawyer

It’s not mandatory that you hire an attorney when you file a workers’ comp claim. However, you have a right to seek advice from a lawyer at any stage of the process. While many workers wait until their claim is denied to get legal advice, it’s best to talk to a lawyer early on. This helps to reduce the likelihood that you’ll make costly mistakes.

Don’t Talk to the Third-Party Administrator

The third-party administrator’s role is to protect the interests of your employer. An individual may approach you and try to get you to talk about your injury or illness. While they may seem friendly, they will use what you say against you so it’s best not to speak to them. If you choose to engage, stick to basic information like when and where the injury occurred, and which parts of your body were affected. Don’t say anything about how you presently feel physically or mentally. You also shouldn’t bring up any past injuries. Your attorney will offer you more advice about what you should and should not say.

Don’t Sign Anything without Consulting a Lawyer

You should refuse to put your signature on any documents until an experienced Cleveland workers’ comp lawyer can review them. If you sign a settlement offer, you can’t ask for more money later if your injuries turn out to be more serious. Sometimes, companies offer a speedy settlement that’s tempting but it may not be in your best interests.

Contact Our Attorneys Today for Help with Your Claim

A Cleveland workers’ compensation attorney can help you to get maximum compensation for your workplace injury or illness. When you’re recovering, it can be hard to focus on anything except getting well. Our team will take care of all the complicated bits, so you don’t have to worry about paperwork or appeals. Call us to schedule a consultation today.