If an injured worker fails to get medical treatment unreasonably, what should be done?

• A. Stop payment of workers' compensation benefits
• B. Continue payment of workers' compensation benefits
• C. Continue payments and petition for dismissal
• D. Continue payments and petition to suspend for unreasonable refusal

Answer: (D)

In situations where an injured worker does not seek medical treatment unreasonably, continuing payments while also petitioning to suspend benefits for unreasonable refusal is a necessary course of action. Continuing payments ensures that the worker remains supported during their recovery, as their injury may still require future treatment. However, concurrently filing a petition to suspend benefits highlights the seriousness of the worker's inaction regarding medical treatment. It communicates to both the worker and relevant authorities that failing to follow medical advice can impact the validity of their claims. This balanced approach prioritizes the worker's need for support while also addressing their responsibility to seek appropriate care.