Medical Benefits

According to Massachusetts law, virtually every employer is required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This program is designed to ensure that employees receive financial assistance in the event that they are injured during the course and scope of their employment. In exchange for these benefits, an employee is barred from bringing a personal injury claim against an employer, except in some limited situations. One of the most critical components of a workers’ compensation claim is ensuring that you are adequately reimbursed for your medical expenses. Brockton workers’ compensation attorney Robert C. Shea is prepared to help you protect your rights with regard to these benefits.

Pursuing Medical Benefits Following a Job Injury

In Massachusetts, the Department of Industrial Accidents is responsible for overseeing the state’s workers’ compensation system. This is the agency that will oversee your claim, resolve any disputes between you and the employer’s insurance company, and hear your appeal in the event that your claim is denied. If the Department of Industrial Accidents denies your appeal, you may then pursue legal action in the state court system.

A work-related injury may happen in many different ways, including car accidents, crane accidents, scaffolding malfunctions, exposure to toxic or dangerous chemicals, farming accidents, construction accidents, burn injuries, and illnesses arising from job-related stress. The first step in recovering medical benefits after an injury on the job is to file a claim with your employer’s insurance carrier. Then, the insurance carrier will request that you undergo a medical examination to assess the nature and scope of your injury.

During the medical examination, the physician will evaluate you to determine whether your injury is partial or total and whether it is temporary or permanent. These two determinations will decide the amount of benefits that you then receive on a weekly basis, according to a statutory-based scale. For example, partial and temporary injuries result in smaller weekly benefit payments than total and permanent injuries. As part of your claim, you may be also entitled to receive compensation for any medical costs associated with the injury, including hospital expenses, rehabilitation services, physical therapy, medication, and mileage incurred on the way to and from these appointments. As a result, it is a good idea to keep thorough records and receipts reflecting any medical expenses that you incur as a result of your work injury.

Discuss Your Workers’ Compensation Claim with a Brockton Attorney

If you have suffered an injury at work, you may be entitled to benefit payments, including compensation for your medical expenses. For many injured employees, the workers’ compensation system seems daunting to navigate. At the Law Office of Robert C. Shea, P.C. our aggressive and dedicated team can help you assess your potential options and pursue the full amount of benefits and payments that you deserve. Brockton workers’ compensation lawyer Robert C. Shea represents injured people in Brockton, North Easton, South Easton, and Stoughton, as well as other areas of Bristol, Norfolk, and Plymouth Counties. Call us now at 617.674.0408 or contact us online to set up a free appointment with a work injury attorney