Suspicious Workers’ Comp Claim Denied on Appeal

After a worker’s claim for left chest wall pain was approved, the employer appealed, arguing that the claim was suspicious. The Appeals Commission agreed. The worker had left work early, telling his supervisor he was sick, not injured. He was out for two days and then returned for his usual duties on Oct. 27 without reporting an injury. When his supervisor asked about his unexplained absence, the worker produced a doctor’s note saying he couldn’t work until Nov. 9. So then why was he at work on Oct. 27′ In addition, his x-rays showed that his left chest was normal. The Commission concluded that although workers are presumed to be honest, these circumstances indicate this worker’s claim was invalid [Decision No. 2012-278, [2012] CanLII 15350 (AB WCAC), March 21, 2012].