The COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone’s life in some way. While everyone has had to deal with social distancing, mask-wearing, and other protocols, many in Wisconsin have contracted the disease. The disease affects everyone differently, but for many, a COVID-19 infection can lead to serious illness or worse. To date, Wisconsin has seen over 500,000 reported cases of COVID-19.
Workers’ Comp Benefits for COVID-19 in Wisconsin
For those who have experienced the more dangerous side of COVID-19, missing work for a lengthy period of time is possible. In this scenario, it’s important to know if you can apply for workers’ compensation benefits.
The fact is, there are certain workers that are eligible for workers’ comp benefits as a result of contracting COVID-19. But understanding the criteria can be confusing. Having a Wisconsin workers’ comp lawyer on your side can greatly improve your chances of receiving benefits.
Does the COVID-19 Cause Need to Be Work-Related?
If you’ve contracted COVID-19 and need to miss work, you must be able to form a connection between work and your contraction of the illness to receive workers’ comp benefits in Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Department of Workforce development states that a worker must be performing a service growing out of and incidental to their employment to be eligible. A workers’ comp lawyer can help make that connection if there is a dispute by the employer or insurance company.
The employee must establish a traceable employment-related cause for contracting COVID-19 at work. This includes dates, times, locations, and any potential known exposure at the workplace. The evidence can also include proof that the worker could not have contracted the disease anywhere else.
Does a Medical Doctor Need to Diagnose Wisconsin COVID-19 Cases for Benefits?
If someone falls ill and suspects that they have contracted COVID-19, it’s best to get tested and consult a doctor. This also will likely help with any workers’ comp claim that may be made. The employee should ask the employer or insurance carrier what the requirement is for diagnosis with a claim.
Depending on the insurance carrier, it may need to be a medical doctor, compared to a practitioner, but the question should always be asked, as many do allow several forms of medical professionals to confirm the diagnosis.
Getting Help with a COVID-19 Workers’ Comp Claim in Wisconsin
Anyone who has contracted COVID-19 and needs to submit a workers’ comp claim to cover lost wages and medical bills should get an attorney involved early. Tabak Law can help with a Wisconsin workers’ comp claim related to COVID. Get in touch with the professionals today by calling 844-432-0114.