(a) In all cases of claims for hernia, it shall be shown to the satisfaction of the Workers' Compensation Commission:
(1) That the occurrence of the hernia immediately followed as the result of sudden effort, severe strain, or the application of force directly to the abdominal wall;
(2) That there was severe pain in the hernial region;
(3) That the pain caused the employee to cease work immediately;
(4) That notice of the occurrence was given to the employer within forty-eight (48) hours thereafter; and
(5) That the physical distress following the occurrence of the hernia was such as to require the attendance of a licensed physician within seventy-two (72) hours after the occurrence.
(b) (1) In every case of hernia, it shall be the duty of the employer forthwith to provide the necessary and proper medical, surgical, and hospital care and attention to effectuate a cure by radical operation of the hernia, to pay all reasonable expenses in connection therewith, and, in addition, to pay compensation not exceeding a period of twenty-six (26) weeks.
(2) In case the employee shall refuse to permit the operation, it shall be the duty of the employer to provide all necessary first aid, medical and hospital care and service, to supply the proper and necessary truss or other mechanical appliance to enable the employee to resume work, to pay all reasonable expenses in connection therewith, and, in addition, to pay compensation not exceeding a period of thirteen (13) weeks.
(c) In case death results within a period of one (1) year, either from the hernia or from the radical operation thereof, compensation shall be paid the dependents as provided in other death cases under this chapter.
(d) Recurrence of the hernia following radical operation thereof shall be considered a separate hernia, and the provisions and limitations regarding the original hernia shall apply.
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