What defines a medical-only claim?

• A. An injury requiring first aid treatment only
• B. An injury requiring one doctor visit and one follow-up visit
• C. An injury with no indemnity payments
• D. An injury with no compensable lost time but results in medical treatment beyond first aid

Answer: (D)

A medical-only claim is characterized by an injury that does not result in lost wages for the employee but does involve medical treatment that extends beyond basic first aid. Essentially, this type of claim indicates that while the individual may require a doctor’s evaluation and care, they are not unable to work due to the injury.

This understanding of medical-only claims is crucial in workers’ compensation contexts, where the distinction between medical treatment and lost time can significantly influence the claims process, liability, and associated costs. In this scenario, the individual receives necessary medical attention, but because they are not missing work, the claim is labeled as "medical-only."

The other options do not fully encapsulate the specifics of medical-only claims. For instance, while first aid treatment could be involved, the presence of more extensive medical treatment is what necessitates the classification. Similarly, a claim requiring one doctor visit does not encompass the necessary scope of treatment to qualify as medical-only. Moreover, while no indemnity payments might seem like a key identifier, it's the medical treatment beyond first aid that ultimately solidifies the definition of what constitutes a medical-only claim.