Knee injuries are among the most common workplace injuries. Knee injuries often require surgery or substantial conservative treatment. In many situations, the initial treatment is covered by workers’ compensation. However, knee injuries often require future treatment as well. Research suggests individuals with a history of joint trauma are 3 to 6 times more likely to develop knee osteoarthritis and are diagnosed approximately 10 years earlier than individuals without a history of joint trauma. In many surgical cases, the patient is as much as 15 times more likely to require a total knee replacement procedure in the future. So, who pays for the future treatment? The answer is it depends.
Following a compensable workers’ compensation injury, your claim may be settled in a variety of ways. One of those options includes settling your claim with future medical open. Many employers prefer not to settle claims in this nature because of the increased liability imposed on the employer for future treatment. Therefore, it is important to have an experienced workers’ compensation attorney helping you navigate these complicated situations – especially with knee injuries where the likelihood of future treatment is high.
Whether an injury is going to be paid for by workers’ compensation always depends on the facts of each case – and how those facts are interpreted and documented. Getting help from an experienced lawyer early in the case helps you to protect your right to recovery. At Harvey & Carpenter, our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys can help you navigate these difficult issues. We offer free consultations to discuss any of your workers’ compensation questions. Call us now at (507) 779-7529.
In Minnesota, when dealing with knee injuries under workers’ compensation, it is important to understand how future medical benefits are handled. If your claim remains open for future medical treatment, the employer’s workers’ compensation insurance is responsible for paying for any necessary ongoing care related to the injury. This can include physical therapy, additional surgeries, prescription medications, and assistive devices such as braces. However, once a claim is fully settled without future medical benefits, the injured worker must cover any subsequent treatment costs unless they can prove the need for additional care is directly linked to the original injury and reopen the case within the statutory time limits.
Another important consideration is the concept of permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits. In Minnesota, if a knee injury results in lasting impairment, the injured worker may be entitled to PPD compensation based on the severity of their disability. The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry provides schedules for rating permanent impairments, which helps determine benefit amounts. An accurate medical evaluation and thorough documentation of your knee condition are essential for maximizing these benefits.
For workers who are no longer able to perform their previous job duties due to a knee injury, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) may be an option if workers’ compensation benefits are insufficient or have ended. SSDI requires proof that the injury prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity for at least 12 months. Medical evidence, including detailed records of your knee injury and treatment history, plays a critical role in the SSDI application process.
Practical tips: Always keep detailed records of your medical visits and treatments. Communicate promptly with your employer and their insurance company, but do not sign any settlement without consulting a qualified attorney. If your claim is denied or you face challenges obtaining ongoing medical care, seek legal advice immediately. At Harvey & Carpenter, our attorneys have extensive experience with Minnesota workers’ compensation and SSDI cases involving knee injuries. We can help you understand your rights and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation at (507) 779-7529.
