Workers who have job-related health challenges may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. Employees who fall off a ladder and break an arm often know that they are eligible for benefits. The same is true of those who acquire an illness due to exposure to pathogens or carcinogens while working.
Physical injuries and illnesses lead to straightforward workers’ compensation claims in many cases. However, they are not the only types of medical conditions that people may develop because of their employment. Some workers may develop mental health issues because of their careers.
Employees might acquire post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) because of their work. A PTSD diagnosis often means a variety of personal challenges. PTSD can be difficult to treat and can make it hard for someone to handle basic job responsibilities or even elements of daily life. Some workers with PTSD may qualify for benefits if they need support. Who might be eligible for PTSD-related coverage through workers’ compensation in Florida?
Workers in three high-risk professions
Florida State lawmakers expanded workers’ compensation rules to protect employees in certain professions. Specifically, firefighters, police officers and correctional officers may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits after a PTSD diagnosis. If firefighters or those helping to enforce the law experience trauma because of their jobs, they may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits to cover their treatment costs and replace their lost wages.
Workers with serious physical injuries
Some people develop PTSD because of stressful situations that they witness. A firefighter might develop PTSD symptoms because they respond to a call for medical support after a particularly horrific car crash. Traditionally, Florida limits PTSD coverage through workers’ compensation to only those who have suffered an injury that then triggers psychological trauma. If a worker gets hurt and nearly dies on the job, they might develop PTSD. They could be eligible for benefits that cover both their physical need for treatment and their need for mental health support after getting hurt.
Reviewing the situation that led to a PTSD diagnosis with a skilled legal team can help a worker better evaluate if they may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. PTSD can be a qualifying condition if the situation meets the right standards.