Many work injuries are only a temporary inconvenience. A sprained ankle or broken arm will eventually fully heal, allowing the worker to return to their job and continue the same career path they have always enjoyed.
Unfortunately, some injuries are actually permanent. Workers could lose a limb in a traumatic amputation or have surgeons amputate their limb because they experience a major crushing injury. Someone could hurt their brain or their spinal cord. There are also occupational illnesses that could leave someone unable to continue the job they have long performed.
Receiving a diagnosis that means you have to leave your job can be a very difficult shock to overcome. How will Iowa workers’ compensation protect you when you have a permanent injury related to your employment?
It can help you gain new skills
Iowa workers’ compensation offers vocational rehabilitation services for those who can still work but who can no longer perform the same job. Acquiring new job skills could help you move to a different profession that offers the same kind of compensation you have long enjoyed.
It can cover your medical care
Even if your employer offers health insurance, you probably have to pay a significant portion of the care costs that you incur. Deductibles, co-pays and coinsurance are all common ways for healthcare insurance companies to pass back to the policyholders. Workers’ compensation insurance will potentially cover 100% of your treatment costs until you reach maximum medical improvement or are able to return to work.
It can provide you with disability pay
Being unable to do your job is more than frustrating. It can be financially devastating for you and other members of your household. Iowa workers’ compensation does not replace your whole paycheck, it can replace up to two-thirds of your lost wages, although there are maximum benefit limits that do apply. Higher-earning workers tend to receive less than two-thirds of their wages in disability benefits.
Workers’ compensation claims can become complicated and often require professional help. However, the benefits that are available after you make a claim have a value that far outweighs the time and effort invested in filing your claim. Educating yourself about how workers’ compensation may help you can make it easier for you to connect with the benefits you need for a work-related medical issue.