Maryland Workers’ Compensation Benefits For Long-Term Care Employees
Working in any type of long-term care facility can be fulfilling, but it also poses unique challenges. Long-term care workers in Maryland routinely put their health and safety on the line and have a significantly higher chance of suffering on-the-job injuries and illnesses.
Benefits available through the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission provide a safety net in this situation, covering medical costs and lost wages long-term care workers incur as a result. Our Maryland workers’ compensation attorney explains more about the risks and the types of benefits available.
On-The-Job Injuries Pose Serious Risks For Long-Term Care Workers In Maryland
According to the Maryland Department of Health, there are over 230 nursing homes and other long-term care facilities located throughout the state, representing over 30,000 beds. More than 50,000 people work in long-term care services, and with an aging population, it is one of the more in-demand career fields.
Most people choose this as a career field out of a sincere desire to help. Unfortunately, many of them are unaware of the potential risks. On-the-job accidents are unfortunately common in these facilities. Unfortunately, the National Institutes of Health states that roughly 93 percent of these facilities report having at least one employee injured each year. Among the most common ways they happen include:
- Overuse, such as when attempting to lift or move patients;
- Slips and falls caused by slick floors or other hazards;
- Being struck by or against objects;
- Acts of violence, which are unfortunately common and may be committed against nursing home workers by patients or their families.
Unfortunately, these and other hazards can cause serious harm, requiring ongoing medical care and potentially leaving long-term care employees unable to work for long after.
How Maryland Workers’ Compensation Helps Long-Term Care Workers
On-the-job accidents can happen in any occupation, but long-term care workers in Maryland are at high risk. Fortunately, when your injuries prevent you from working, Maryland workers’ compensation provides important benefits. These can include:
- Coverage of all causally related medical costs for your injuries;
- Payment for lost wages while you recover;
- Additional amount for long-term and permanent impairments;
- Job retraining, if your injuries prevent you from working in a nursing home or providing long-term care in the future.
If you work in a nursing home or other long-term care facility in Maryland, it is important to make safety your top priority. Report dangerous conditions and any on-the-job accidents to your employer immediately. Get prompt medical attention and follow your doctor’s instructions regarding all work and other activity restrictions.
Contact Our Maryland Workers’ Compensation Attorney To Schedule A Consultation Today
Working in any type of long-term care facility is an important yet demanding job. On-the-job accidents can leave you suffering serious injuries. Workers’ compensation benefits in Maryland help cover your costs, including medical care and lost income.
If you have been denied benefits, contact Berman, Sobin, Gross LLP. We offer caring support and the professional legal representation needed to protect your rights. Schedule a consultation with our experienced Maryland workers’ compensation attorney today.
Sources:
wcc.state.md.us/Gen_Info/WCC_Benefits.html
health.maryland.gov/mmcp/longtermcare/Pages/Nursing-Home-Services.aspx
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38546387/
