Which statement is true about the compensable consequences doctrine?

• A. It allows medical treatment for illnesses arising as a consequence of a compensable injury.
• B. It only applies to injuries, not illnesses.
• C. It denies illnesses arising from injuries.
• D. It makes only wage-related costs payable.

Answer: (A)

When an injury is found to be compensable, the law covers related medical problems that arise as a natural result of that injury, including illnesses that develop because of the injury or its treatment. This means medical treatment for those illnesses is payable as part of the compensation, not just payment for the original injury. It isn’t limited to physical injuries alone; illnesses connected to the injury can be compensable consequences. It also goes beyond wage costs, providing coverage for medical care and related expenses tied to the consequences. For example, if a compensable injury leads to an infection or a secondary illness caused by the treatment, those conditions and their care can be covered.