Health care workers in Michigan face certain risks every time they show up at work. This type of job is fraught with challenges, both physically and emotionally. Statistics indicate that health care workers face a significant chance of experiencing an injury at work or suffering from the effects of their job.
If you are a health care worker and you suffered injuries in a workplace accident or you became ill as a direct result of your job, you could have a rightful claim to workers’ compensation benefits. You may work in a challenging and risky job, but these risks do not undermine your right to benefits and support through workers’ compensation insurance.
The health risks of working in health care
People who work in the health care industry have dedicated themselves to caring for others, but they can expose themselves to great personal risk in doing so. Some of the risks that these employees face in the workplace include the following:
- Exposure to blood-borne pathogens and toxic gases
- Injuries from lifting and moving patients
- Exposure to chemicals and dangerous drugs
- X-ray exposure
- Risk from doing repetitive tasks over a long period of time
One of the most significant risks that health care workers face is the threat of workplace violence. Doctors’ offices and hospitals can be stressful, painful places for both patients and their families. Often, employees face unmerited backlash, the threat of harm and, unfortunately, physical harm from patients and visitors.
Regardless of the reason for your workplace injury, you have the right to seek support after a work-related injury. You are entitled to a full recovery, and you can seek to recover a portion of your lost wages, recovery of your medical expenses and more through your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. You may find it beneficial to learn about the benefits available to you as soon as possible after a workplace accident.
What should you know about the claims process?
The workers’ compensation claims process is not easy. It can be challenging and confusing, and you may feel unsure of how to deal with challenges and setbacks. Fortunately, you do not have to walk through this process alone. With help, you can navigate the process and secure the benefits you need and deserve.
As an injured health care worker, it could benefit you to seek a complete evaluation of your case and explanation of your legal options before you move forward with a workers’ compensation claim.