When people sustain an injury or illness on the job, they may be eligible to receive compensation as a result. This is provided by the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act. These expenses can cover medical expenses and lost wages in the event that the individual is unable to go back to work. In addition to this, death benefits for work-related deaths are paid to dependent survivors.
Who is Covered?
In the state of Pennsylvania, nearly every worker is covered by the act. By law, employers are required to provide workers’ compensation for all employees. This includes seasonal and part-time workers. This is also true for non-profit corporations, unincorporated businesses, and employers with only one employee.
There are cases in which some employees may be covered by other compensation laws. This can include federal civilian employees, railroad workers, longshoremen, shipyard and harbor workers. Others who are not covered by the Act can include volunteer workers, agricultural laborers, casual employees, domestics, and employees who are granted a personal religious exemption.
When Does Coverage Begin?
Workers’ compensation coverage begins the day the employee is hired. If they become injured and need these services, the medical benefits are payable from the first day of their injury. Wage-loss payments are only made to individuals who are disabled more than seven calendar days, including the weekends. Benefits for lost wages are payable on the eighth day after their injury. If the individual cannot come back to work for 14 days, they can receive retroactive payment for the first seven days.
How Do I Receive Benefits?
When an accident happens that results in injury, it is important that it is reported. This can be reported to an employer or supervisor. It is crucial that the incident is reported immediately so that the date and place of the injury can be documented. If an employer is not notified, it can result in delaying or even a denial of these benefits. Once an individual loses a day or shift of work due to their injury, the employer is required to report the injury to the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. It is important to know that if an employer denies a claim, the individual has the right to file a claim petition with the bureau for a hearing in front of a workers’ compensation judge.
If you have become the victim of an on the job injury, it may be beneficial to speak with an attorney and the doctor that is treating you to determine how to make the process as easy as possible. AllianceMeds understands that a workplace accident can be challenging and is here to help. We will deliver your medication to your door using overnight delivery and cover any out of pocket expenses that may arise. If you have any questions about how we can help, contact AllianceMeds today.