Workers’ compensation coverage is mandatory in virtually all industries. Employers ranging from retail companies to manufacturers have to carry coverage in case someone gets hurt on the job. Traumatic injuries and acquired medical conditions may lead to a successful workers’ compensation claim. An affected worker can obtain medical coverage and payments to replace lost wages.
In theory, almost any medical issue that directly relates to someone’s employment could qualify them for workers’ compensation benefits. In practice, however, some conditions more quickly and easily lead to successful claims than others. Mental health disorders can often be difficult to prove and, therefore, can be particularly challenging conditions in re: securing workers’ comp benefits.
Some workers can get benefits for PTSD
The ability of an employee to make a successful benefits claim related to a mental health issue will directly correlate to their documentation of having the condition and their ability to connect it to their job. Seeing a mental health professional for diagnosis is important, and it may mean a worker has already incurred substantial personal costs. Provided that the worker can connect their condition to their employment, they may be able to get benefits.
If someone develops PTSD after a robbery at their job where a co-worker gets shot, they could potentially qualify for benefits that would replace their lost wages and help them obtain treatment. If the person struggling with PTSD is a first responder, they will potentially have an easier time getting benefits, as the Ohio state legislature did adopt a specific provision.
The law in Ohio now has a special rule protecting first responders like firefighters, police officers and paramedics who develop PTSD as a result of their job responsibilities.
PTSD can be a debilitating condition
Those with PTSD related to their work may not be able to go back to the same environment or perform the same job responsibilities until they get their symptoms under control. The therapeutic process for helping resolve PTSD symptoms is often very lengthy and may take a year or longer in some cases. The cost for the treatment can also be quite high, which is why workers’ compensation benefits can prove invaluable to those traumatized by their job recently.
Learning more about the rules that govern workers’ compensation benefits can help those who have been physically impacted by their employment. Connecting with an experienced legal professional can help to ensure that injured workers receive the maximum amount of compensation to which they are rightfully entitled.