Most workers’ compensation cases involve new injuries or diseases. The main reason is that workers’ comp benefits are meant to support employees injured as a direct result of their job. But what if you have a preexisting condition made worse by your work?
In Pennsylvania, a worker with an aggravated illness or injury can get compensation given certain factors are met. If you have a preexisting condition and your job made it worse, here’s what you need to qualify for workers’ comp.
You must prove that your job made your condition worse
In traditional workers’ comp claims, the employee must prove a connection between their job and the injury in question. The same is true for preexisting conditions, such as:
- Arthritis
- Back pain
- Fractures
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Herniated or ruptured discs
- Respiratory illness
You must prove that the nature of your job exacerbated your injury or illness. For example, say you have a preexisting back condition and your job involves lifting heavy boxes regularly. To qualify for workers’ comp, you must show that the physical demands of your job worsened your back injury.
You need medical documentation
One of the most important parts of a workers’ comp claim is proof of your injury or illness. This can include medical documentation like physical exams, diagnostic tests and doctor’s reports.
You must have not misrepresented yourself while applying for the job
In aggravated injury cases, a common reason for denial is misrepresentation or failure to disclose their existing health issues while applying for the job. This applies to industries with many specific physical requirements, such as construction or manufacturing.
If your records do not show that you disclosed your preexisting condition, you might not be able to qualify for compensation.
Having a preexisting condition can make your workers’ comp claim more difficult, but it is still very possible to qualify for benefits. Legal guidance can be instrumental in proving your case and, more importantly, receiving the compensation you need to recover and support your family.
