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Healthcare workers have some of the hardest, and statistically most dangerous, jobs in the country. When a healthcare worker sustains an injury, they should be able to recover the money they need for their medical bills and most of their lost wages, per the workers’ compensation laws in Arizona. Here, we want to review exactly what should be available for medical workers who are harmed on the job.
Contact a Phoenix workers compensation lawyer today to help you get deserved compensation.
Healthcare workers face a variety of risks daily due to the nature of their jobs. Whether working in a hospital, clinic, or long-term care facility, these individuals often encounter dangerous situations. Some of the most common injuries include:
Lifting and handling patients. One of the most significant risks healthcare workers face is musculoskeletal injuries, particularly back injuries, from lifting and moving patients. This repetitive task can cause strains, sprains, and even herniated discs.
Slip and falls. Healthcare environments are often fast-paced, and spills or other hazards can lead to slip and fall accidents, which result in fractures, head injuries, or bruising.
Needle stick injuries. Those who regularly administer injections or handle sharp instruments are at risk for needle stick injuries, which can expose them to bloodborne pathogens like HIV or hepatitis.
Exposure to infectious diseases. Healthcare professionals are on the front lines of patient care, increasing their exposure to viruses, bacteria, and other infectious diseases. This risk has been amplified during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In Arizona, healthcare workers injured on the job are entitled to several types of workers’ compensation benefits under state law. These benefits are designed to ensure that workers can recover without the burden of financial strain. The types of compensation available include:
Medical benefits. Workers’ compensation covers all necessary medical expenses related to a workplace injury or illness, including hospital stays, surgery, medications, rehabilitation, and physical therapy.
Temporary disability benefits. If a healthcare worker cannot return to work for a period of time due to their injury, they are entitled to temporary disability benefits. These benefits provide compensation equal to two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wages
Permanent disability benefits. In cases where a healthcare worker’s injuries are so severe that they result in a permanent disability, they may receive long-term benefits. These benefits can provide compensation for life if the worker is unable to return to their previous job.
Vocational rehabilitation. Healthcare workers who cannot return to their original position may be eligible for vocational rehabilitation benefits, which help cover the costs of retraining for a less physically demanding job.
While Arizona’s workers’ compensation system is meant to protect injured employees, healthcare workers often face complications when filing claims. Common issues include:
Pre-existing conditions. Insurance companies may argue that a worker’s injury is related to a pre-existing condition rather than the workplace accident, making it difficult to secure compensation. In such cases, thorough medical documentation is crucial to demonstrate the connection between the injury and the job.
Delayed claims. Healthcare workers who hesitate to report their injuries may face challenges in proving that their condition is work-related. Prompt reporting and thorough documentation of all injuries are essential to overcoming this hurdle.
Healthcare workers who sustain an injury should follow specific steps to protect their right to compensation:
Report the injury immediately. Arizona law requires employees to report their injuries as soon as possible. Prompt reporting helps strengthen the case and reduces the chances of claim denial
Seek medical care. It is essential to get medical treatment right away, both to address the injury and to document the extent of the harm for the workers’ compensation claim.
File a claim with the Industrial Commission of Arizona (ICA). Workers must file a claim with the ICA to begin the compensation process. The ICA will review the claim and determine whether it qualifies for benefits. We strongly recommend that you talk with a trusted and experienced workers’ comp lawyer in your area before trying this.