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Workers’ Matters
Long COVID continued from page 4 procedure, requirements, or time limits of filing a claim.
For workers in New York, several factors can contribute to the underutilization of their workers' compensation benefits. A significant factor is a need for more awareness and knowledge of their rights and the scheme.
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For many immigrants and low-income workers, who are likely to benefit from this scheme, some encounter language barriers, and others need more access to information on navigating the process for workers' compensation. Many workers need to be made aware of the benefits available to them or the requirements for filing a claim in New York. This lack of information and understanding can lead to the underutilization of benefits.
Another factor is the fear of retaliation or job loss. Workers may hesitate to pursue a workers' compensation claim due to concerns about strained relationships with their employers, potential discrimination, or even termination. Fear of neg- ative consequences can discourage workers from accessing the benefits they need. In addressing this fear, there must be anti-retaliation policies, and workers must be educated about protecting against employer retaliation.
The complexity and administrative burdens, such as lengthy claim procedures, excessive paperwork, and delays in claim processing, can discourage workers from pursuing their claims.
Lastly, financial considerations may also play a role in underutilization. Workers may be concerned about the potential economic costs of filing a claim, such as legal fees or
Symptoms of long COVID-19 include fatigue, shortness of breath and cognitive issues offset the workers' temporary or permanent lost income from work-related injuries or illnesses. Moreover, it also eases the financial burden on workers and their families during their recovery period or in cases of permanent disability. medical evaluations. In some cases, workers may need to know that workers' compensation covers these expenses. Providing information on available financial assistance, offering legal support services, or establishing fee structures that do not hinder accessing benefits can help address these concerns.
19. It offers crucial welfare for workers and their families. Ranging from access to medical care, income replacement, legal protections, and vocational rehabilitation.
All these contribute to a fair and supportive system that helps workers recover and maintain their livelihoods after work-related injuries or illnesses.
Benefits and Protections from Accessing Worker's Compensation
Generally, workers' compensation insurance provides significant benefits and protections to employees in the event of work-related injuries or illnesses like prolonged COVID-
The scheme serves as a safety net, supporting workers and their families during challenging times. Thus, understanding the critical aspects of workers' compensation is crucial for employers and employees to ensure the appropriate utilization of these benefits.
For instance, it provides medical coverage for any worker that sustains a work-related injury or illness. The scheme covers the costs associated with medical treatment and rehabilitation services. Thereby ensuring injured or ill workers receive the medical care they need to recover from ill health without financial hardship.
Furthermore, it also provides wage replacement benefits for the workers. Such gifts help
Interestingly, workers' compensation also covers essential legal protections. For instance, accepting workers' compensation benefits means waiving the right to sue one employer for a work-related injury or illness. This creates a system of no-fault liability that ensures that workers receive benefits regardless of who is at fault for the incident.
Such protection ensures the worker has peace of mind by preventing them from engaging in lengthy and costly legal battles. In situations where a work-related injury or illness results in a worker's inability to perform their previous job, vocational rehabilitation helps them gain new skills or find suitable employment opportunities. This support aims to facilitate their return to work, promoting their financial independence and overall wellbeing.p
