Workers’ Compensation for Injured Healthcare Workers

Healthcare professionals do the wonderful job of caring for those who are sick, injured, and need medical help.

Medical assistants, nurses, and transportation workers in the healthcare sector play a crucial role in the running of a hospital. Often, they are the first ones to report for duty and are the last ones to leave. They work for extended hours caring for those who need medical attention. However, they too can get injured in the process.

Types of Healthcare Workers Prone to Injury

Healthcare professionals who are prone to work-related injuries are:

• medical assistants
• nursing staff
• nursing home aid workers
• hospital patient transportation workers
• PT/OT and physical therapist aides
• EMT and paramedics

There are many ways in which a healthcare professional can get injured at the workplace. Healthcare workers have to reposition, lift, and shift patients, and with more and more patients being obese, the chances of a worker getting injured are high. A large number of healthcare workers get musculoskeletal disorders and injuries at a rate higher than that even in the mining and construction industries.

Slip and Fall Injuries

Slips and falls are common types of injuries suffered by healthcare workers. Grease, water, and spilled fluids can cause a worker to slip and lose balance. Falls often cause disabling injuries that may have life-changing consequences. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare professionals are 90 percent more prone to injuries from slips, trips, and falls compared to workers in any other industry. It is the second largest cause of injury, ranking next only to overexertion induced injuries.

A compilation of data from workers’ compensation claims received over a 10-year period shows that healthcare professionals are more susceptible to the knee, ankle, and feet injuries such as strains, sprains, and dislocations. Health care workers are also exposed to bloodborne pathogens from percutaneous injuries and needle sticks. Contact with contaminated sharp devices can expose a healthcare worker to serious and life-threatening diseases.

When To Consult a Missouri Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

If you are a healthcare professional who has become injured while working, you may be entitled to Missouri workers’ compensation benefits including medical benefits and lost wages. You may choose to consult with an experienced Missouri workers’ compensation attorney, especially if:

• You were exposed to hazardous materials.
• You were stuck with a needle or another sharp device.
• You are receiving workers’ compensation benefits, but you are receiving reduced payments or at risk of losing benefits.
• You are being asked to return to work even though you are not fully recovered.
• You are interested in taking a lump-sum settlement.

Call The Law Office of James M. Hoffmann at (314) 361-4300 for a free case evaluation.

Workers & Industry