I was denied a WC claim that occurred while I was working at home; our WC carrier claimed there was “no precedent” for paying claims for telecommuters. Was saddled with beaucoup medical bills (co-pays, etc)Folks tell me I should appeal–I don’t want a “red flag” on my personnel file..
Jane….. a lot of it depends on various state laws. The case that is featured in the article would not have been paid in every state. As far as an appeal process, you are not appealing to your employer (unless this is a self-insured program), you are appealing to the insurance company to take a second look. Alternative…… you can file a notice to your State Department of Insurance as well to ask them to help you in the review of the declined claim. Also, in the declination, the company most likely would have to show where in the policy/law to decline. If you can show that your injury was work related (that is why tripping over your dog may not qualify in all states), then it doesn’t matter if you were working from home or at the office.
I was denied a WC claim that occurred while I was working at home; our WC carrier claimed there was “no precedent” for paying claims for telecommuters. Was saddled with beaucoup medical bills (co-pays, etc)Folks tell me I should appeal–I don’t want a “red flag” on my personnel file..
I worked from home for a few years and was injured at my house. My claim was covered. This was in 1995.
An injury is an injury. You might need to weigh the benefit of recouping your costs v. a “red flag”. Seems right & reasonable to me.
Jane….. a lot of it depends on various state laws. The case that is featured in the article would not have been paid in every state. As far as an appeal process, you are not appealing to your employer (unless this is a self-insured program), you are appealing to the insurance company to take a second look. Alternative…… you can file a notice to your State Department of Insurance as well to ask them to help you in the review of the declined claim. Also, in the declination, the company most likely would have to show where in the policy/law to decline. If you can show that your injury was work related (that is why tripping over your dog may not qualify in all states), then it doesn’t matter if you were working from home or at the office.