High Court Clarifies Liability Limit for Pre-Existing Conditions

The Oregon Supreme Court unanimously ruled that injured workers must be fully compensated for an impairment unless the employer has reduced liability after issuing a denial for a combined condition. Case: In the Matter of Compensation of Caren, No. 52, 08/08/2019, published. Facts: Susan Caren injured her back while working for Providence Health System Oregon, which accepted liability for a lumbar strain. Caren had surgery but remained in pain. A physician noted that Caren had a diminished range of motion, but attributed 50% of the impairment to pre-existing arthritis. Caren&...