Workers’ compensation benefits aim to aid employees who sustain on-the-job injuries while at work. Minnesota workers are eligible for these four different benefit categories, including medical insurance, salary compensation, vocational rehabilitation, and death benefits if the worker dies due to their injuries.
Workers’ comp doesn’t cover injuries on the way to and from work. For example, if you fall from your chair while at your desk, you could be eligible for workers’ comp benefits, but if you’re in a motor vehicle accident while in traffic on your way to work, you’re not eligible to file a workers’ compensation claim for benefits. Workers’ compensation provides many benefits to employees and their families, including prescriptions, physical therapy, job training and career counseling, and many more.
Workers’ compensation medical coverage
Your workplace injury or disability is covered for all required medical treatment, including deductibles and copays. Your workers’ compensation benefits include coverage for long-term care such as physical therapy and skilled nursing and medical equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers and prosthetics. Travel expenses for treatment of your workplace injury or disability are also part of your coverage.
Pay under workers’ compensation
Injured workers receive a percentage of their pre-injury salary from workers’ compensation. State guidelines determine the amount you receive based on your injury, disability and when you can return to work. Your doctor might place you on limited work duties while you recover from your injuries.
Your employer may place you on another work assignment while you’re on restricted duty. Workers’ compensation requires injured workers to report to work when they’re medically cleared. Workers who refuse work assignments might jeopardize their workers’ compensation benefits and their jobs.
Careful documentation of your progress, keeping doctor’s appointments and following all medical treatment plans are the smartest ways to protect your benefits and optimize your recovery.
