What is worker’s compensation? Generally speaking, worker’s compensation was created to provide a method of resolving issues that stem from a work-related injury. Worker’s compensation also covers industrial illnesses. The process begins when an injury or illness occurs during the course of employment that results in time off work. Of course some work injuries can result in disability or death. The employer may or may not be negligent or otherwise at fault. Regardless, the worker’s compensation system ensures that the worker receives benefits that may include:

• wage replacement
• medical coverage
• vocational rehabilitation or other assistance
• death benefits for surviving family members

Most employers are subject to workers’ compensation laws. Some states exempt small employers and most federal workers are exempt as well. Currently worker’s compensation laws cover over 90% of all employees in the U.S. The most common types of injuries that lead to worker’s compensation claims are:

• back injuries
• falls
• repetitive stress injuries (i.e. carpal tunnel syndrome)

Here’s what to do if you are injured on the job:

• Notify your supervisor or employer’s human resource representative immediately.
• Complete the proper worker’s compensation claim form provided by your employer.
• See a doctor to determine the seriousness of the injury or illness. If it’s an emergency, seek prompt medical attention.
• Provide as much information about the injury or illness as possible to ensure a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

The medical benefits under worker’s compensation are not unlike those you are entitled to with health insurance. However, unlike health insurance, injured workers also get compensated for lost time and wages. This holds true as long as he or she is considered partially or permanently disabled. As well, the employee’s care and treatment are different from the norm. During the course of treatment, the chosen worker’s compensation physician will assess what percentage of disability the injured worker has and when they will be fit to work again. For example a doctor could assess that an injured worker is 60% disabled and with physical therapy could return to full duty in four to six months. If and when the physician determines that the injured worker is capable of performing the same or modified duties, work may resume. Problems can arise when the employee does not agree with the physician’s assessment of his or her condition and benefits are discontinued or subsequently denied.