People who are injured while working will usually be able to receive workers' compensation benefits, which will address issues such as the costs of their medical treatment, the income lost while recovering from an injury, and job displacement. However, the process of obtaining workers’ comp benefits is not always straightforward. In some cases, disagreements may arise between an injured worker and their employer or an insurance provider over the medical treatments a person should receive. In such cases, independent medical reviews (IMRs) may be used by the California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) to help resolve these disagreements.

What Is an Independent Medical Review?

An independent medical review is a process that is used to resolve disagreements between injured workers and workers' compensation insurance companies about the treatments that should be provided and whether certain treatments are medically necessary. In an IMR, a medical professional will review a request for treatment and medical records and documentation about a patient's condition and provide an opinion on whether the requested care is medically necessary.

How Does the IMR Process Work?

If a disagreement over medical treatment arises, a utilization review (UR) may be performed to determine whether treatment is medically necessary. If medical treatment is denied or modified following a utilization review, the injured employee can request an independent medical review. An application for an independent medical review must be submitted within 30 days after the injured worker received a written utilization review determination.

Working for long hours, performing job duties that involve harmful substances, or working in hazardous environments can lead to various health risks, including occupational illnesses. Fortunately, the California workers' compensation system is designed to help employees who have been injured or become ill from their job. Workers' compensation benefits are available to employees who have suffered a work-related injury or illness. However, many people are not aware of when they are eligible to file for workers’ compensation due to an occupational illness.

Understanding Occupational Illnesses

First, it is important to know what an occupational illness is. An illness or disease that results from exposure to harmful chemicals, toxins, or other substances in the workplace may qualify as an occupational illness. Other illnesses or diseases may arise out of the work a person has performed. If an illness occurred while a person was working or was caused by the conditions in the workplace or work-related activities, it would be considered an occupational disease.

Working in the construction industry comes with its fair share of hazards. Construction workers are exposed to multiple risks every day, and accidents and injuries are not uncommon. Construction sites are known for their hazardous settings, heavy machinery, and dangerous tools, and these factors can put construction workers at a high risk of injury. Fortunately, injured construction workers will usually qualify for workers' compensation benefits.

Common Construction Site Accidents Leading to Injuries

There are numerous issues that can put construction workers in danger of suffering injuries. Workplace accidents and injuries may occur due to:

If you have been injured on the job in California, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. There are a variety of different types of workplace injuries that are covered under California workers’ compensation laws, including leg and knee injuries. You may be able to receive medical benefits, temporary or permanent disability benefits, and more. The specifics of your claim can vary depending on the severity of your injury and other factors. By understanding how knee and leg injuries are addressed in workers' comp cases, you can ensure that you will be able to receive the benefits you deserve.

Types of Leg and Knee Injuries Covered by Workers' Compensation

In California, employers must provide workers’ compensation coverage for all employees. Workers’ compensation covers a wide range of leg and knee injuries that occur while on the job. Common types of leg and knee injuries include fractures, sprains, strains, dislocations, torn ligaments or tendons, crushed bones, nerve damage, amputations, burns, and cuts or lacerations.

Every workplace carries its own inherent risks, and office environments are no exception. Accidents and injuries can happen in any job setting, and they can cause a great deal of difficulty for workers. The question is: if an office employee is injured or becomes ill on the job, are they eligible for workers’ compensation benefits? Fortunately for workers, the answer is "yes." Those who are injured in workplace accidents, contract diseases or illnesses while working in offices, or suffer bodily harm due to the work they have performed will be able to receive benefits. If you are an office worker, understanding the types of benefits that may be available can help you make sure you will be able to recover from an accident or injury while at work.

Types of Injuries in the Office Environment

Many of the most common types of injuries that happen in an office environment are repetitive stress disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome. These injuries affect the nerves in the wrists, and they may be caused by activities such as typing or using a computer. They can lead to significant pain or loss of sensation in the hands and wrists, affecting a person's ability to continue working as they had previously. Other types of repetitive injuries may include eye strain from looking at computer monitors or small print on documents throughout the day, as well as back pain or other issues related to posture when sitting in office chairs.