Injured employees can qualify for workers’ compensation benefits in many cases. Medical benefits are available to pay for necessary care. Professionals may also qualify for temporary disability benefits if they need time away from work to heal.
Frequently, temporary disability benefits are all that workers require. They may receive partial temporary disability benefits if they require light-duty work with lower pay while they recover. Temporary disability benefits can provide support for those who cannot work until their condition improves or they complete treatment.
The state also offers permanent disability benefits. Permanent total disability benefits can help those who may never work again. There are also permanent partial disability benefits available. When can workers typically qualify for permanent partial disability benefits?
When treatment does not resolve their symptoms
Occasionally, it is immediately apparent that a worker may never make a full recovery after an on-the-job injury. An amputation, for example, is likely to cause permanent functional limitations even with timely treatment.
Other times, workers only realize after undergoing treatment that a full recovery is unlikely. If a doctor determines that a worker has stopped responding to treatment, they may end their medical treatment benefits. While the worker may still qualify for benefits to control their symptoms, the state does not pay for treatment that is unlikely to produce a noticeable improvement in their condition.
Permanent partial disability benefits can help address the difference between a worker’s prior income and the wages they earn after their injury. Workers who have ceased responding to treatment and those with permanent functional impairment could be eligible for permanent partial disability benefits.
Learning more about workers’ compensation benefits can help professionals navigate the claims process. Permanent partial disability benefits can be helpful for those who experience reduced earning potential due to work-acquired medical conditions.
