Worker's compensation question?

Question

My father recently hurt his back while lifting at his work. (General Electric) He had some x-rays done and they seemed to show degenerative back problems. Because of this, worker's comp disputed his benefits claim. His primary care physician informed us it was a work-related injury, and degenerative back issues happen to everyone as they age. After this conclusion, he began receiving benefits. Then the worker's comp people referred him to a specialist (affiliated with GE). Because the specialist found "pre-existing back conditions," worker's comp canceled his benefits. However, our primary care physician continues to insist the back problems are related to normal aging and my stepfather is entitled to compensation because of his injury.

Does anyone have experience or knowledge of this situation or is anyone aware of Massachusetts law guidelines concerning worker's comp? Is my father entitled to these benefits?

Answer 1

Your father should file for an appeal of the decision.  This happens all the time.  Many lawyers will take a case if they think they can win, as the insurance company pays them not you.  Insurance companies do this all the time, hoping to reduce their costs.  Even if there were some prior problems, the job created a worse situation, and there should be compensation and medical care.  

Answer 2

he works for gE in mass.?  really where doint what?

Answer 3

Sounds like worker comp. is trying to avoid pay for a work related injury no surprise. I've been of workers comp. for 8 months for carpal tunnel syndrome. I've had to surgeries to correct this problem. My second month of worker comp. they wanted to send me to a second option doc. there doc. and said I was not that hurt. I had to get a Lawyer and Its been great ever sense. A lawyer will protect your fathers rights as a worker and get him good treatment. And he can still keep his job So it might not be a bad idea