Most employees in New Jersey are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits if they get hurt on the job. They can file a claim reporting their diagnosis or injury and seek coverage that can pay for their medical care. Workers’ compensation can also help replace lost wages when employees need time away from work because of their medical challenges.
Some professionals with work-acquired medical issues convince themselves that they don’t need to file a workers’ compensation claim. After all, they may have paid time off and health insurance that can support them during their recovery. Contrary to what some employees might assume, using medical insurance and paid leave instead of workers’ compensation may not be the best financial decision.
Health insurance forces patients to pay
Modern health insurance policies impose a variety of patient responsibility costs on those who need care. Many people have deductibles that they have to pay before their insurance policy covers their expenses. Many people have policies that impose deductibles that are thousands of dollars.
Additionally, coinsurance has become a common requirement. Employees have to cover a certain percentage of their medical expenses even after they meet their deductible. Combine that with co-pays that are due at every appointment and each time a worker fillsc a prescription, and the use of a personal health insurance policy can actually be quite expensive.
Workers’ compensation medical coverage is different. It typically provides full coverage for all medically-necessary treatments. Workers don’t have to cover any of their treatment costs out of pocket. They can rely on their insurance for all of their major costs.
Additionally, employees who qualify for medical benefits through workers’ compensation might also be eligible for disability benefits if the recommended treatment requires time away from their employment. The injured employee can retain their paid leave for a planned vacation or an emergency scenario in which they are not eligible for other forms of support.
Understanding how workers’ compensation functions can help people see the benefits of filing a claim. Employees trying to navigate a complex bureaucratic system or respond to questions about their medical challenges may need help. Partnering with a workers’ compensation attorney can help professionals learn about their rights and pursue the benefits they deserve.