Pennsylvania workers who have been injured on the job will have inevitable concerns about the future. Workers’ compensation benefits can be a lifesaver that eases their fears and allows them to think about getting well. It can help them financially and medically.
However, there are often questions about exactly what is covered through workers’ compensation regarding medical care. This goes beyond the immediate aftermath of the injury and centers on long-term needs.
People need to be aware of what they are entitled to so they do not receive bills when they should not. If there are disputes, it is also critical to be aware of the options available to resolve them.
Medicine, supplies and more will be provided
After being approved for workers’ compensation, basic medical care is a given. That includes doctor visits, treatment, surgery, rehabilitation and whatever else is needed to ensure a maximum recovery. This generally includes all forms of reasonable treatment.
Still, workers need to know that they are supposed to be covered for necessities related to their injuries. For example, if the worker needs pain medication – as many do – that will be covered. If they must have orthopedic supplies such as a cane, a walking boot, a walker, a wheelchair and more, they can receive it. This extends to a prosthesis for those who lost a limb.
Injuries can go beyond what is clear on the surface. In some instances, just getting medical care is insufficient. The injured worker will need specific items to facilitate them getting around the house, reducing their pain, addressing the aftereffects of the injury and more. This is part of the benefits workers are supposed to get.
Injured workers need to understand their rights
After a work injury, getting care is the first step. Next, knowing how to receive workers’ compensation benefits is imperative as it can address costs, help workers make ends meet while they are off the job and get them what they need to move forward.
There can be disagreements as to the extent of the injury, its severity, what items the worker might need and how long they will be off the job. A common refrain from workers who did not get all the benefits they should have is that they did not know what they could get certain items.
Seeking workers’ compensation and getting all the benefits available can be confusing. Workers need to understand their rights and take steps to receive all they are entitled to under the law.