If an employer directs you to deny a meritorious claim, what should your response be?

When faced with a directive from an employer to deny a meritorious claim, the appropriate response is to pay benefits if they are due. This is grounded in the obligation of a claims handler to adhere to the principles of good faith and fair dealing that are integral to workers' compensation laws. Workers' compensation is designed to provide timely and appropriate benefits to injured employees when they have valid claims.

By affirmatively paying the benefits that are warranted, you not only comply with the law but also uphold the rights of the injured worker under the California workers' compensation system. This ensures that employees receive the support they need to recover and return to work, which is the central purpose of this insurance system.

The other options do not align with the ethical and legal responsibilities of a claims handler. For instance, consulting legal counsel is important in complex situations but should not delay the payment of benefits that are clearly due. Following the employer's directive without question could violate both legal obligations and ethical standards. Additionally, delaying action until further notice could exacerbate the claimant's situation and may lead to further legal complications or penalties for the employer and the claims handler.