Court Approves Worker's Long-Term Use of Medication Designed for Short-Term Use

A New York appellate court ruled that a worker was entitled to continued coverage for a medication beyond its recommended use period. Case: Matter of Byrnes v. New Island Hospital, No. 526413, 12/06/2018, published. Facts: Jenmarie Byrnes worked for New Island Hospital. She suffered injuries to her back, shoulder and hip in 2000 and received workers’ compensation benefits. Byrnes’ doctor issued a prescription for Amrix. The comp carrier for the hospital initially paid for the medication, but in 2016, it challenged Byrnes’ continued use of the muscle relaxant. The carrier ...