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Worker’s Compensation for PTSD

March 27, 2023

In Missouri, workers who experience post-traumatic stress disorder, known as PTSD, as a result of a work-related injury or illness may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits. However, the process of filing a claim for PTSD can be complex, and workers must meet specific eligibility requirements to qualify for benefits.

Learn what you need to know about PTSD and worker's compensation in Missouri below.

What Is PTSD?

PTSD is recognized as a legitimate medical condition that can result from a traumatic event. The disorder is characterized by symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance behavior, and hyperarousal. These symptoms can cause significant distress and interfere with an individual's ability to work or perform daily tasks.

Can You Receive Worker's Compensation Benefits for PTSD in Missouri?

Under Missouri law, workers' compensation covers mental injuries that are the direct result of a physical injury or accident that occurs on the job. This includes PTSD, which can develop as a result of a traumatic workplace event, such as a workplace accident, exposure to violence, or witnessing a traumatic incident.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for Worker's Compensation for PTSD?

To be eligible for workers' compensation benefits for PTSD in Missouri, workers must meet several criteria. First, the worker must have experienced a qualifying traumatic event while on the job. This event must be beyond the normal stressors of the job and must have caused the worker's PTSD.

In addition, workers must provide evidence that their PTSD is a direct result of the workplace event. This evidence may include medical records, testimony from mental health professionals, and witness statements.

Workers must also meet all the eligibility requirements for workers' compensation, such as reporting the injury or illness to their employer promptly and seeking medical treatment from an approved healthcare provider.

How Do You Apply for Worker's Compensation Benefits?

It is essential for workers who experience PTSD as a result of a work-related injury or illness to seek medical attention promptly and report their condition to their employer. Workers should also keep detailed records of their medical treatment and any expenses related to their condition.

The process of filing a workers' compensation claim for PTSD in Missouri can be challenging. Workers must file a First Report of Injury (FROI) form with the Missouri Division of Workers' Compensation within 30 days of the workplace event that caused their PTSD. If the worker does not file the FROI within 30 days, they may lose their eligibility for benefits.

Once the FROI is filed, the employer and their insurance carrier have a certain amount of time to investigate the claim and either accept or deny it. If the claim is accepted, the worker may be eligible for benefits such as medical treatment, wage replacement, and vocational rehabilitation.

If the claim is denied, the worker has the right to file an appeal with the Missouri Division of Workers' Compensation. The appeal process can be complex, and workers may want to consider hiring an attorney who specializes in workers' compensation to help them navigate the process.

Should You Seek Additional Support for Your PTSD?

In addition to workers' compensation benefits, workers with PTSD may benefit from other types of support, such as therapy, support groups, and other mental health resources. These resources can help workers manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

Overall, workers who experience PTSD as a result of a work-related injury or illness in Missouri may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits. If you are experiencing PTSD, don't hesitate to seek medical attention and explore your options for support and treatment. If you have any questions, please contact Spooner and Perkins P.C. Attorneys at Law.

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If you've been injured on the job, you may be entitled to workers' compensation benefits. These benefits are designed to cover medical expenses and lost wages while you recover from your injury. However, navigating the workers' comp claim process can be confusing and overwhelming. That's why it's important to know when to call a lawyer for your workers' comp claim. In this blog post, we'll discuss the situations where it may be necessary to seek legal representation for your workers' comp claim. By understanding these scenarios, you can ensure that you receive the full benefits you're entitled to under the law. Denial of Your Claim One of the main reasons to call a lawyer for your workers' comp claim is if your claim has been denied. Unfortunately, insurance companies often deny valid claims to save money. If this happens, it's important to have an experienced workers' compensation lawyer on your side who can fight for your rights. They can review the details of your case and gather evidence to support your claim, making it difficult for the insurance company to deny you the benefits you deserve. Appealing a Decision If your initial claim is denied or if you feel that you're not receiving the full amount of benefits you're entitled to, you may need to appeal the decision. This process can be complex and time-consuming, but having a lawyer on your side can make it easier. They can handle all the legal aspects of your appeal and ensure that you have the best chance of getting the benefits you deserve. Pre-Existing Conditions If you have a pre-existing condition that has been aggravated by a work-related injury, it may be necessary to call a lawyer for your workers' comp claim. Insurance companies often use pre-existing conditions as an excuse to deny or limit benefits. However, with the help of a lawyer, you can prove that your current injury is directly related to your job and receive the full benefits you're entitled to. Disputes over Medical Treatment or Benefits In some cases, you may be involved in a dispute with your employer or the insurance company over the type of medical treatment you're receiving or the amount of benefits you're entitled to. This can be a frustrating and stressful experience, but with a lawyer by your side, you can have someone who knows the law on your side. They can fight for your rights and ensure that you receive proper medical care and fair compensation. Permanent Disability If your workplace injury has resulted in permanent disability, it's important to call a lawyer for your workers' comp claim. Permanent disability benefits are often complex and difficult to calculate, especially if there are future medical expenses involved. A lawyer can help determine the full extent of your disability and ensure that you receive the appropriate benefits to cover your needs. Employer Retaliation Unfortunately, some employers may retaliate against employees who file workers' comp claims. This can come in the form of demotions, pay cuts, or even termination. If you feel like your employer is treating you unfairly because of your claim, it's important to call a lawyer. They can protect your rights and help you take legal action against any form of retaliation. Navigating a workers' comp claim can be overwhelming, especially if it involves legal disputes and complex calculations. That's why it's important to know when it's time to call a lawyer for your workers' comp claim. If you find yourself in any of the situations mentioned above, it's best to seek legal representation from a qualified workers' compensation lawyer. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance if you feel overwhelmed or encounter any issues during your workers’ comp claim process. For more info, contact us at Spooner & Perkins, P.C.