As the COVID-19 pandemic changes the way Americans live their lives, it is important to remember that there are many healthcare workers on the frontlines at high risk of contracting the virus. However, there have been many questions about whether or not workers’ compensation will cover healthcare employees if they contract coronavirus.
What is happening in this state?
As of this writing, there have been relatively few cases of COVID-19 confirmed in South Carolina, but this number is expected to rise. One of the main concerns is the well-being of our healthcare workers, those who face an increased risk of exposure to coronavirus. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), those 60 and over are the most risk of becoming seriously ill due to COVID-19. Additionally, those with heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, and weakened immune systems have a higher risk of serious illness.
The CDC says that most people who contract coronavirus can expect minor symptoms and will be able to successfully recover at home. As the coronavirus continues to spread, the men and women in South Carolina’s healthcare system, as well as first responders, face an increased risk of contracting the virus. However, will healthcare workers be compensated for any missed days of work?
Business Insurance Journal states that we do not have precedence for a pandemic like this. Washington state’s Department of Labor announced that the state would take steps to ensure that healthcare workers and first responders would receive workers’ compensation if they contract COVID-19.
Healthcare workers in this state, and throughout the country, can probably expect to receive some kind of paid coverage if they contract COVID-19. The public sentiment, as well as state and federal legislators, have generally been in favor of protecting workers during this outbreak.
We are ready to help
If you or a loved one have become injured or ill at work and are having trouble receiving compensation, contact the Dan Pruitt Law Firm today. Our Greenville workers’ compensation attorney will provide a free consultation today to find out what your next steps should be. The Dan Pruitt Law Firm is ready to help healthcare workers receive the compensation they need amidst the COVID-19 outbreak.