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Iowa Workers' Compensation: Do I have to work the morning of surgery?

By Steve Lombardi

As lawyers we are asked questions daily concerning our areas of practice. In this instance the person asked about workers' compensation and whether they have to work the day of surgery.

Question: I was told that I have to work the morning before my work comp surgery. I am not able to use paid time off for half of the day. Do I have to work on the day of my surgery?

Answer: If you have an excuse (written preferred) signed by your doctor you can get off of work and collect workers' compensation weekly indemnity. Otherwise you can't stay off without risking getting fired or not getting paid.

It may seem somewhat heartless to have a person working for the morning when surgery is scheduled in the afternoon. It may or may not be, it all depends on how serious is the surgery. Employers need workers to get the job done. The trained employees get the job done faster and more efficiently. The employer needs to make a profit or they are out of business.

Workers on the other hand need to work in a safe environment. If the doctor thinks you need the morning off then by all means get an excuse from work and deliver a written copy to your supervisor. Otherwise you'd better show up for work.

In Iowa we have several large manufacturers that are well known throughout the Midwest.

Pella Windows and Doors

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31D19Hiucng

John Deere - Tractor parts and music added just for fun.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Naf50JIZ2lw

John Deere - Long but good music and shows farm country.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phd26i9ThQI

Vermeer - Maker of heavy equipment.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMgEucatnXQ

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Steve Lombardi

Full post as published by Des Moines Personal Injury Lawyer on July 08, 2009 (boomark / email).