Rehbock & WilsonAnchorage Workers' Comp Attorney | Mat-Su Valley AK Work Injury Lawyer2024-02-06T00:10:22Zhttps://www.resultscount.net/feed/atom/WordPressOn Behalf of Rehbock & Wilsonhttps://www.resultscount.net/?p=467362024-02-06T00:10:22Z2024-02-06T00:10:22Zprotection of workers' compensation coverage. They can seek disability benefits to replace their lost wages and medical benefits to help cover treatment expenses. How long can a worker continue receiving medical benefits?
Until they fully recover
The best outcome for a workers' compensation claim is when treatment is successful. A worker may fully recover from their injury or occupational illness and return to work. Medical benefits end when someone no longer requires treatment.
When someone stops improving
Not all on-the-job injuries result in a full recovery. Catastrophic injuries and repetitive stress conditions may never fully resolve even with medical intervention. The doctor overseeing a worker's compensation case may eventually determine that someone has achieved maximum medical improvement (MMI) for their condition. In other words, additional treatment is unlikely to have much impact on their condition. Treatment benefits typically end at that point. Thankfully, workers can still qualify for medical coverage if they require ongoing care to manage their symptoms.
After a worker becomes medically non-compliant
Occasionally, workers make decisions that worsen their medical challenges. The decision to refuse treatments or the refusal to follow a treatment plan could lead to claims that a worker is responsible for their failure to improve. They could potentially lose their benefits at that point, leaving them ineligible for ongoing medical coverage.
Sometimes, determinations about someone's eligibility for medical benefits are inaccurate. Workers may need to appeal and fight to get the benefits they deserve. Learning the basic rules that apply to workers' compensation claims, and seeking legal guidance when necessary, may benefit those coping with a job-acquired medical condition in Alaska.]]>On Behalf of Rehbock & Wilsonhttps://www.resultscount.net/?p=465902023-11-07T13:30:04Z2023-11-07T13:30:04ZFishing vessels are dangerous places
The ocean itself, intense weather and the constant motion of nuts and other gear are driving factors for the risk to workers on fishing vessels. The biggest risk for professional fishermen, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, is contact with objects.
A third of all reported non-fatal injuries resulted from accidental contact with objects. Contact with objects might include anything from nuts to parts of this ship or heavy machinery that could strike a worker, possibly causing head injuries or broken bones. Fishermen will not be able to do their jobs safely with these injuries and may require both time off and medical coverage to address their injuries.
Overexertion causes another 16% of lost-time injuries. Overexertion includes injuries ranging from back problems to knee pain caused by constant lifting and twisting. People can end up hurt by one action or by the slow accumulation of trauma through physically-demanding labor.
Fishermen and other blue-collar workers may require both medical care and a leave of absence if they get hurt in a way that affects their job performance. They may qualify for injury-related compensation benefits to help reduce the financial impact of their injuries. Seeking legal guidance accordingly, in the wake of sustaining fishing-related harm, is wise.]]>On Behalf of Rehbock & Wilsonhttps://www.resultscount.net/?p=465892023-08-06T23:49:07Z2023-08-06T23:49:07ZRepetitive stress injuries
Spending all day manually writing, typing or holding a phone can do real damage to someone's hands, wrists and forearms. Repetitive stress injuries related to job functions performed at a desk are a common source of workers' compensation claims among office employees. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a perfect example of an occupational illness that may very easily impact an office worker.
Slips, trips and falls
While office workers may not perform their jobs in dangerous outdoor settings, they could very easily get hurt just walking around in the office. Someone doesn't need to be at a significant elevation for a fall to leave them injured. A slip in someone's spilled coffee or a trip down the stairs could lead to broken bones or brain injuries that force workers to go to the hospital and possibly to take a significant leave of absence from work.
Electrical injuries
Office workers sometimes end up burned or worse because they must handle the electrical supply for computers and other office machinery. From copy machines and printers to coffee makers, any device with an electrical supply puts a worker at risk of shock or burns.
Like workers in other professions viewed as more traditionally risky, those who do their jobs in an office setting typically have the right to pursue workers' compensation benefits if they get hurt on the job. Knowing about and avoiding job risks is important for an Alaskan professional as is knowing about the benefits available if they do get hurt.]]>On Behalf of Rehbock & Wilsonhttps://www.resultscount.net/?p=465602023-05-02T16:01:20Z2023-05-02T16:01:20ZHealth insurance makes patience pay for care
When someone requires medical care and uses their health insurance, they often end up responsible for a portion of their bill. Many modern policies have deductibles that require that someone pay thousands of dollars before the insurance company will cover their treatment. There are also co-pays for different types of care and also coinsurance that can cost someone thousands of dollars more.
Unlike that limited coverage that forces a patient to absorb some of the expense, the health coverage provided by workers' compensation is very complete. Injured employees can expect full coverage with no cost-sharing, allowing them to access whatever treatment they require without damaging their finances. Additionally, a claim for health benefits will make it easier for an individual to later secure disability benefits if they cannot quickly return to work or have to move to a lower-paid position.
Workers' compensation covers more than just treatment
Filing a workers' compensation claim in Alaska won't just mean better medical benefits. It can also lead to disability coverage. Workers' compensation may reimburse someone for a portion of their lost wages if they require an extended leave of absence from work due to their symptoms.
Although disability benefits will not fully replace lost income, they can be a critical source of support for someone temporarily out of work. Especially if workers do not have paid time off coverage or separate disability insurance policies, the disability benefits available through workers' compensation can be a crucial financial lifeline until they recover.
Seeking legal guidance to better understand the basics of Alaska workers' compensation can help people benefit from adequate support after suffering an injury on the job.]]>On Behalf of Rehbock & Wilsonhttps://www.resultscount.net/?p=465592023-02-07T17:42:18Z2023-02-07T17:42:18ZHealthcare workers do their best to care for the patients entrusted to their care. Many people don’t realize the hazards that come with working in this profession.
Some of the more serious risks for healthcare personnel are present for those who have direct access to patients. It’s crucial that all healthcare facilities recognize these hazards and implement safety measures to prevent injuries.
1. Back injuries
Lifting and positioning patients can cause back injuries. Instead of trying to do these singlehandedly and manually, care teams should try to use team lifting methods or lifting devices like Hoyer lifts to make this aspect of patient care a bit easier.
2. Sticks from sharps
Needles and other sharps are major hazards in the healthcare industry. This is especially true for ones containing certain medications like chemotherapy agents and those that have been used on patients prior to the stick. Using proper capping and disposal methods can help to prevent these from occurring.
3. Slip and falls
Spills or liquids on the floor, including bodily fluids, can lead to slip-and-fall incidents. Wearing non-slip shoes can help prevent this from happening. Additionally, any liquids on the floor should be promptly cleaned.
4. Bodily fluid exposure
Exposure to bodily fluids is hazardous because of the risk of the healthcare professional contracting a communicable disease from it. Immediate monitoring after they’re exposed to any bodily fluids is crucial. Personal protective equipment can prevent this from occurring.
5. Violence in the workplace
Violence in the workplace is possible, especially if the employee is working with an irate patient or upset family member. Proper measures, such as having ample security, may help to stop attacks on healthcare professionals while they’re caring for patients. While many healthcare professionals will try to continue caring for patients despite suffering an injury, this isn’t a good idea. Continuing to work may lead to the worker doing more damage to themselves. Instead, they should seek medical care, which is covered by workers’ compensation. Other benefits are also possible, but you may have to work with someone who can help you fight for what you’re due. ]]>On Behalf of Rehbock & Wilsonhttps://www.resultscount.net/?p=465572022-11-01T21:29:01Z2022-11-01T21:29:01ZPhysical and mental health
Many long-time truckers develop physical and mental health issues during their employment. Physical and mental health often go hand-in-hand – when one is having problems, the other is frequently affected.
Truckers may not have time to stop during long-haul shipments. This could cause a trucker to skip out on sleep, food, exercise and hygiene, often resorting to fast food and smoking to stay awake. Over time, truckers may develop heart issues, diabetes, blindness and lung cancer.
When truckers develop physical health issues or have been on the road too long, their mental health can falter. Truckers may develop depression because of growing health concerns or isolation, paranoia from the lack of sleep and insomnia from stress. Likewise, developing a mental condition can lead to increased physical concerns, ultimately, creating a vicious cycle.
Season changes on the road
While the physical and mental health of a trucker is a huge concern, truckers are also vulnerable to their environments. Not only do truckers have to work around accidents, aggressive drivers and vehicle maintenance but the weather can take a sudden shift, creating difficulties for truckers.
If the weather becomes foggy, truckers may have their vision impaired. Since truckers often need a wide berth to stop, having their vision obscured could make it harder for them to stop.
Alternatively, if it snows, truckers may have to deal with obscured vision and covered roads. If the roads are covered in too much snow or freeze over, employees may have difficulty stopping, if they can stop at all. Any one of these weather conditions and more could lead to serious accidents.
If you're experiencing medical difficulties on the job or were injured, leaving you unable to work, you may need to know your workers’ compensation rights.]]>On Behalf of Rehbock & Wilsonhttps://www.resultscount.net/?p=465352022-08-10T17:42:19Z2022-08-05T19:41:50ZRepetitive stress injuries
Office workers may spend most of their day typing or holding a phone. Performing those same manual tasks over and over again can put a lot of strain on the hands, wrists and forearms. Office workers are quite prone to the development of repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome.
These conditions may force a worker to change what job functions they perform and may necessitate surgery or time off of work.
Back and shoulder issues
Sitting all day can cause chronic pain and a loss of flexibility. Office workers may develop tension in their lower backs and hips. They may also develop pain in their shoulders and necks from hunching forward to type. Companies can reduce these risks by providing high-quality chairs with lumbar support, but a sedentary job will always come with some risk to the back, neck and shoulders.
Eye strain and headaches
Being under fluorescent lights all day can damage someone's eyes or cause headaches. Unless there are glare reducers installed on monitors or workers use special eyeglasses, they may have complaints involving eye strain and chronic headaches related to the lighting or the computer that they use in the office.
Any of these medical issues may require time off of work, visits with medical professionals and possibly a move to a different, lower paying position. Workers' compensation benefits are available for those who work in any profession, not just high risk industries that often see catastrophic injuries.]]>On Behalf of Rehbock & Wilsonhttps://www.resultscount.net/?p=465282022-08-10T17:40:40Z2022-04-28T20:10:43ZWorkers can receive several kinds of benefits
Every employer in Alaska typically carries workers' compensation insurance to protect them from liability. You can make a claim against that insurance coverage if you slip and fall at work or your doctor diagnoses you with carpal tunnel syndrome. Workers' compensation will pay for all of your necessary medical treatment. It will also provide you with indemnity or disability benefits.
Workers can receive short-term disability benefits until they recover enough to go back to work and also permanent disability benefits if their condition has a lasting impact on their health. There are both partial and total disability benefits available. Unfortunately, disability pay will not cover the full amount of your usual paycheck.
How much does workers' compensation actually pay?
In theory, the most a worker can receive is two-thirds of their average weekly wage. Currently, the highest possible weekly benefit under workers' compensation in Alaska is $1,398. If you typically make more than $2,097 per week, then your benefits will inevitably be less than two-thirds of your average weekly wage.
Unfortunately, the more you earn, the bigger the gap between what you usually receive and wages and what workers' compensation will pay. Still, getting those benefits is better than going without any income until you recover. Learning more about the Alaska workers' compensation program can help you get the benefits you need to recover and support yourself.]]>On Behalf of Rehbock & Wilsonhttps://www.resultscount.net/?p=465222022-08-10T17:52:12Z2022-02-02T22:59:02Zneedlestick or sharp injuries when they:
Don’t have a proper workstation for sharps procedures
Work too quickly
Bump into a sharp or needle while another worker is using one
Dispose of needles that are attached to tubing
Have to recap a needle
Don’t transfer or dispose of needles in puncture-resistant containers
These are all issues that could result in serious injuries and exposure to dangerous pathogens.
What are employers expected to do to minimize the risks caused by needles and sharps?
To help prevent this from happening, employers have a few responsibilities. They need to:
Have a bloodborne pathogen control program
Provide post-exposure medical evaluation
Investigate injuries related to sharps
Provide needle devices that have safety features as well
Eliminate the use of needles or sharps when other alternatives are available
Employers may also need to provide containers for sharps or needles to those traveling for business.
What do you do if you’re injured by a needle or sharp?
Before working with these items, your employer should have discussed how to deal with exposure to pathogens. For example, if you are stick with a needle after giving a shot to a patient with HIV, there should be specific post-exposure requirements set up for you.
Let your employer know about the pathogen exposure immediately, because medical intervention may be needed quickly. Then, wash the needlestick or injury with soap and water to flush the space. If there is a particular solution that you are supposed to use after exposure, use it as soon as you can. Then, seek immediate medical treatment to go through your post-exposure medical evaluation. This should be covered under your workers’ compensation policy, even if you have to go outside your place of employment to seek treatment.]]>On Behalf of Rehbock & Wilsonhttps://www.resultscount.net/?p=465212022-08-10T17:51:58Z2021-11-02T18:30:09ZEight hours at a desk can damage your body
Sitting is the most dangerous thing about working in an office, and doing it improperly or with inadequate support can be particularly problematic for office workers. Leaning forward toward a computer all day can lead to forward head posture condition, which can cause headaches, muscle spasms and even decreased lung capacity.
Sitting without lumbar support or while leaning forward can also do damage to the lower back. Workers may experience worsening chronic pain or may even have decreased range of motion in their backs and hips.
Typing and handling office equipment can lead to repetitive stress injuries
One of the top causes for office workers to seek workers' compensation benefits is the development of carpal tunnel syndrome. Like other repetitive stress injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome develops a little bit at a time because a worker has to do the same tasks over and over. Typing, gripping a phone or even opening letters all day could cause repetitive stress injuries to the hands and forearms.
Falls and equipment are a danger at any workplace
A worker could easily fall down the stairs at the office or slip because someone spilled their coffee and didn't stop to clean it. Falls snd the injuries they cause are among the top causes for workers' compensation claims.
Office equipment could also potentially cause injuries. A chair breaking could lead to someone falling. A copier shorting out might give someone an electrical shock or burn them. Recognizing the risk factors you face as an office worker will make it easier for you to take action if you need workers' compensation for a work-acquired medical condition.]]>