In what way can an adjuster's assessment influence an injured worker's benefits?

An adjuster's assessment is pivotal in determining a worker's eligibility for benefits under the West Virginia Workers' Compensation system. The assessment involves a thorough evaluation of the circumstances surrounding the injury, the extent of the injury, and how it affects the worker's ability to perform their job. By conducting this assessment, the adjuster can establish whether the injury qualifies under the provisions of the workers' compensation law, thereby influencing the worker's entitlement to benefits.

The adjuster's findings play a critical role in deciding if a claim meets the necessary criteria, which can include aspects like the nature of the employment, the cause of injury, and medical documentation. If the adjuster concludes that the worker's injury is work-related and meets all legal requirements, the worker can be approved for benefits. Conversely, if the assessment finds that the worker does not meet the eligibility criteria, benefits could be denied. Hence, the assessment directly impacts whether a worker will receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.