What Healthcare Workers Should Do When Injured At Work

Law Blog

As a healthcare industry professional, you've made a vow to nurture and protect the health of your patients. Who is going to look out for you when you're the patient? The unfortunate reality is that a number of healthcare professionals get injured every day due to workplace negligence. If you've found yourself in this predicament, it's important that you know what to do.

Get Medical Treatment

Your years of experience and training have probably made it easier for you to self-diagnosis than the average person. Even with all your training, the moments after a workplace injury aren't the time for you to rely on these skills. It doesn't matter if you don't feel like you're hurt.

It is imperative that you get medical treatment from a professional as soon as possible. Medical treatment after a workplace injury isn't just important for your health but also for important for your case.  Failure to receive treatment could be perceived as a sign that you aren't injured.

Always Act Promptly

After receiving medical treatment for your injuries, it's time to notify your employer of the injuries and speak with an attorney. All states have time statutes that determine just how long you have to file a claim for your injuries. While the average is a year, some states offer a shorter window. Should you allow this time frame to pass, even if you are severely injured, you will be unable to file a claim.

Once you have notified your employer, you should then speak with an attorney. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the quicker the attorney can begin collecting your medical records and other pertinent information to initiate the claim filing process. As an added tip, once you've formally filled your claim with your employer, avoid discussing the case with anyone else except your attorney.  

What Type Of Compensation To Expect

Compensation for a workers' compensation case can be quite complex. In some cases, victims are only compensated for the injuries they sustain, but workers' compensation cases are often different.

In addition to injuries, you may also be entitled to lost wages, pain and suffering, and current and long-term medical care costs. An attorney will work with you to ensure you are compensated for every aspect of your case.  

Whether you work in a hospital, medical office or other healthcare facility, you are entitled to a safe and secure workplace. If your employer has failed you in this area, make sure you take swift action. For more information, contact Daniels Long & Pinsel or a similar firm.

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