Chapter 3 Long Term Supports
In this next section you will learn about worker’s compensation, who qualifies, resources to use, and steps to take.
Workers' compensation is a state-mandated program that provides financial and medical benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. The system is designed to ensure that injured workers receive compensation without needing to prove employer negligence. Benefits typically include coverage for medical expenses, lost wages during recovery, disability payments for temporary or permanent impairments, and vocational rehabilitation for those unable to return to their previous jobs.
In exchange for these guaranteed benefits, employees usually forfeit the right to sue their employers for workplace injuries, creating a no-fault system. Each state regulates its own workers' compensation program, with varying rules on eligibility, benefit amounts, and claim processes. Employers are generally required to carry workers' compensation insurance to provide these benefits.
Read this scenario about Becky and then problem solve what the best supports would be.
Scenario
Becky works at Arby’s as a porter. Becky’s gait is uneven and after a long shift she often complains of stiffness in her legs. While at work Becky slipped and fell, although she wasn’t injured, she is worried that it will happen again and doesn’t want to go to work. What do you recommend to Becky?
Although Becky was not injured this time the stiffness in her legs is still a concern that needs to be addressed. Here are some proactive strategies to mitigate the risk of a workplace injury.
1. Make sure all safety precautions are present while Becky is working:
· Non-Slip Shoes
· Caution Wet Floor signs
· Proper Training
· Address any hazards
2. Ask the employer to make a workplace accommodation for Becky.
· Allow Becky to take more frequent breaks
· Complete the hardest tasks at the beginning of the shift when her legs are less stiff
· Allow Becky a longer time to complete tasks
3. Request any adaptive equipment or medical equipment needed
Even with safety precautions present and accommodations for Becky the risk is never zero.
Becky calls you one day and states that she just fell at work and her wrist hurts.
“Workers’ compensation was first introduced in the United States in 1911, with Wisconsin being the first state to pass a comprehensive workers’ compensation law. It provides wage replacement and medical benefits to employees injured during the course of employment.”
What are the steps Becky should take?
After completing these steps Becky is responsible for keeping regular doctor’s appointments and providing this information to her employer.
Support Steps:
Assist with turning in the worker’s compensation paperwork in a timely manner.
Follow up to know the timeline in which Becky can go back to work.
Meet with Becky and the Employer to discuss any restrictions on work that may be required.
Summary
In this section you learned about Workers Compensation. Important takeaways include addressing workplace hazards early on. The better prepared an employee is the less likely a workplace injury will occur. Specific training needs to be provided by the employer, it is up to the employment supports specialist to assist in identifying gaps in training. Workplace accommodations and adaptive equipment can be great resources to mitigate the risk of injury. Promoting clear communication and early reporting is the best way you can support someone through the Workers Compensation process.