Delays in federal workers’ comp can stall medical care, turning injuries into disabilities

Delays in federal workers’ compensation can have a number of negative consequences for injured workers, including:

• Financial hardship. Injured workers may be unable to work and earn a paycheck while they wait for their benefits to be approved. This can lead to financial hardship, as they may have to rely on savings, credit cards, or public assistance to pay for their bills.
• Medical problems. Delays in receiving medical treatment can make injuries worse and lead to long-term health problems. For example, an injured worker who needs surgery may have to wait months for the surgery to be approved, which could allow their injury to become more serious.
• Emotional distress. The stress of dealing with a delayed workers’ compensation claim can be overwhelming for injured workers. They may feel anxious, depressed, and angry. This emotional distress can make it difficult for them to focus on their recovery and return to work.
• Disability. In some cases, delays in workers’ compensation can lead to disability. This is because the injured worker may not be able to get the medical treatment they need or the financial support they need to maintain their job.

The consequences of delays in federal workers’ compensation can be serious for injured workers. It is important for injured workers to be aware of their rights and to seek legal help if they are experiencing delays in their claims.

Here are some additional consequences of delays in federal workers’ compensation:

• Loss of job. If an injured worker is unable to work due to a delay in their workers’ compensation claim, they may be fired from their job. This can make it difficult for them to find a new job, as they may have a gap in their employment history and may be limited in their physical abilities.
• Increased stress on family. The stress of dealing with a delayed workers’ compensation claim can put a strain on the injured worker’s family. The family may have to take on more financial responsibilities, and the injured worker may be less able to contribute to household chores and childcare.
• Decreased quality of life. The consequences of delays in federal workers’ compensation can have a significant impact on the injured worker’s quality of life. They may be unable to enjoy activities they used to enjoy, and they may have to give up hobbies and social activities. They may also experience pain, fatigue, and other physical symptoms that can make it difficult to live a normal life.

If you are an injured federal worker who is experiencing delays in your workers’ compensation claim, it is important to seek legal help. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you understand your rights and advocate for your claim.