Michigan lawyer discusses workers’ comp laminectomy surgery and how it should be covered 100% without dispute.
We understand how difficult back pain is for an individual hurt on-the-job. Employees are protected under Michigan workers’ compensation law. It is a safety net that guarantees payment of medical treatment and lost wages regardless of fault. Unfortunately, insurance companies look for any excuse to dispute valid claims. This is particularly true for something as serious as a spinal injury. Here is some information about a workers’ comp settlement for a laminectomy and how to protect legal rights after surgery.
Does workers’ comp cover a laminectomy?
In Michigan, a laminectomy should be covered 100% by workers comp either through a settlement or weekly benefits. There should be no copayments or deductibles being owed. The same coverage applies for after-care like physical therapy and prescription medications. Attendant care should also be covered, and pays up to 56 hours per week to family members who are helping with activities of daily living. A mileage reimbursement should be paid for every single medical appointment that must be attended.
We frequently take cases that involve back pain. Lifting heavy objects can result in a herniated disc. Sometimes twisting and turning while performing a physical activity will also cause this problem. Even a traumatic event such as a fall or a blow can be the cause. It is important to give the correct history to a doctor to ensure it is appropriately documented. This is especially true when someone has pre-existing arthritis. Proper documentation is critical to ensure you get the maximum amount for your laminectomy workers’ comp settlement.
What is a laminectomy?
Laminectomy is a procedure that creates space in the spine by removing the lamina, which is the back part of a vertebra. It is also called a decompression surgery. This procedure helps remove pressure and alleviate symptoms. While it can help with pain that radiates down the leg, many people still experience back pain. This becomes an issue when the insurance company assumes a person is fine after surgery.
When would I need a laminectomy?
Discs between individual vertebrae in the spine can be damaged from trauma. This is sometimes called a herniated disc, slipped disc, disc protrusion, or ruptured disk. These disc injuries often result in symptoms of pain, weakness, and numbness. Nerves can be irritated or pinched resulting in symptoms down a leg. This is called radiculopathy, and it can be life changing. A physical examination in conjunction with an MRI is typically needed to make an accurate diagnosis. If conservative treatment like physical therapy or epidural injections fail, a doctor might recommend laminectomy surgery.
What is the average workers’ comp settlement for a laminectomy?
In Michigan, there isn’t a specified average workers’ comp settlement for a laminectomy. Statistics published by the Workers’ Disability Compensation Agency show the average payout amount for a work-related injury in Michigan for 2022 was $62,315.56. Our clients can get a higher than average settlement for a laminectomy if evidence shows ongoing need for medical treatment and time off from work.
Insurance companies dispute workers’ comp settlements for laminectomy because it can be related to arthritis. Watch out for IME doctors who say problems are strictly degenerative and just part of the aging process.
It is important to speak with an experienced lawyer should a dispute occur. Evidence from a treating surgeon can be used to show a workers’ comp settlement for laminectomy is appropriate.
Injured at work? Contact our work injury attorneys for a free consultation
If you suffered a back injury at work and had a laminectomy and are questioning if everything was covered with your workers’ comp settlement, call us now, or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. We’re here for you.
Our attorneys have been exclusively helping injured workers in Michigan for more than 40 years. Our attorneys can help you better understand workers’ comp laws and what happens after someone has been hurt on the job. To see what our own clients have to say about the caring, compassion, and communication they received from us, you can read in their own words about their experience here on our testimonials page from clients we have helped.
Michigan Workers’ Comp Lawyers never charges a fee to evaluate a potential case. Our law firm has represented injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 40 years. Call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation today.
Related information:
