In the finger amputation scenario, which items are payable?

• A. Repair Of The Glasses Only
• B. The Amputation Only
• C. Prorate The Glasses Over The Time The Employee Has Owned Them
• D. Both The Glasses And The Finger Amputation

Answer: (D)

When a work-related injury is involved, benefits cover what is reasonable and necessary to cure or relieve the effects of that injury, including both the immediate medical treatment and any devices needed to regain function. A finger amputation clearly requires medical treatment and, if a prosthesis or rehabilitation aids are prescribed, those costs are payable as part of the medical benefits. If eyewear is required as part of treatment, rehabilitation, or to facilitate return to work after the injury (for example, protective or corrective glasses that are necessary due to the injury or its rehab), those items are payable as well. There’s no rule to prorate glasses over how long the employee has owned them—the payment is for the actual, necessary medical items. So both the glasses and the finger amputation are payable.