If you get injured on the job, you likely think about how you can file a claim for workers’ compensation. Workers’ comp benefits may vary from state to state but generally help cover your lost wages, medical bills, long-term rehab, vocational retraining and even death benefits for surviving family members. However, many workers might not consider filing a claim when they suffer a work-related illness, rather than an injury.
Understanding workers’ comp for illnesses
Workers’ compensation is available for short- and long-term illnesses you may develop while doing your job. You may also qualify for benefits if your work contributed to or worsened your health. Both sudden illnesses and ones that happen over time may qualify for benefits.
Below are diseases or health conditions and how they might qualify for workers’ compensation:
- Skin conditions: These diseases can occur if your job exposes you to harmful materials or other irritating substances. Common skin conditions you may develop include eczema and contact dermatitis.
- Respiratory illnesses: Construction, manufacturing and other jobs that expose you to harmful chemicals may put you at high risk of developing asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) and other lung diseases.
- Infectious diseases: Workers in the healthcare industry may be at higher risk of catching bacterial or viral diseases, especially ones that spread through contact and airborne transmission, like COVID-19 or tuberculosis.
- Mental health conditions: Aside from physical illnesses, Florida workers’ comp benefits may also cover post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if you work as a first responder. For other mental health conditions, you may need to show a link between the mental health illness and a physical injury to receive benefits.
Proving work connection is key
Even severe illnesses like cancer may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. The key is proving a connection to the work you do or your workplace. Generally, this means showing proof of exposure to harmful materials or negligent working environments.
Proper legal guidance is crucial, too. Navigating the workers’ compensation system can be challenging—more so if you are dealing with a serious illness. An experienced and trusted lawyer can help make the process easier and help you get the benefits you deserve.