When experiencing an injury at work, many individuals might consider bypassing the Workers’ Compensation claim process and opting to file a claim through their personal health insurance policy instead. While this option may seem easier, there are important reasons to think twice before proceeding with a personal insurance claim for a work-related injury. The Armstrong Law Firm, PLC, in Tulsa, explains more and can help you navigate the situation appropriately and receive the benefits you deserve.
Workers’ Compensation vs. Private Health Insurance
Why should you file a Workers’ Compensation claim when you suffer an injury at work instead of using your health insurance? The most significant reason is the extra benefits your private health insurance does not offer.
- Wage Replacement: While private health insurance may cover medical bills and medication, Workers’ Compensation has the added benefit of replacing lost wages when you are forced to miss work due to an on-the-job injury.
- Disability: Workers’ Compensation can also provide disability benefits for employees who are either temporarily or permanently disabled.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: This can help injured or disabled workers find and maintain employment through job training, career counseling, job placement assistance, and other forms of support.
- Death Benefits: If you perish due to a work-related injury or illness, your family may be able to obtain funeral and burial expenses through Workers’ Compensation.
- Co-Pays and Deductibles: Workers’ Compensation pays 100% of reasonable and necessary medical expenses incurred for treatment with the Workers’ Compensation authorized treating physician, with no employee co-pays or deductibles. Private health insurance will have co-pays and deductibles which will be the responsibility of the employee to pay.
These benefits are not available through private health insurance.
Can I Use Health Insurance for Work-Related Injuries?
Workers’ Compensation is the primary source of coverage for work-related injuries, and most Oklahoma businesses are legally obligated to provide this insurance to their employees. As a result, private health insurance companies are generally not required to cover these types of injuries. Although some private insurers may choose to offer coverage for work-related injuries, this depends on the specific terms of your policy.
If a private health insurance provider does cover medical expenses related to a work injury, they may later seek reimbursement from your employer or the Workers’ Compensation system. Therefore, filing a claim with your private health insurer for a work-related injury may be a more convoluted route to obtaining compensation compared to filing directly with Workers’ Compensation.
Has Your Employer Asked You to Use Personal Health Coverage for a Workplace Injury?
Some employers may ask you to use your private health coverage to cover some workplace injuries. They may want to only file claims for larger cases and not view smaller injuries as worth the hassle of filing a claim or impacting their premiums. If your employer refuses to file a Workers’ Compensation claim for your workplace injury or asks you to use your personal health coverage instead, this violates Oklahoma state law.
Consult with an experienced Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Attorney at The Armstong Law Firm, PLC, to determine if your rights have been violated by your employer. If you sustained a compensable injury as defined by state Workers’ Compensation law, you are entitled to benefits through your employer’s Workers’ Compensation insurance carrier.
Seasoned Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Assistance
Most employers adhere to the law and do everything possible to take care of their employees, including filing Workers’ Compensation claims for injuries sustained on the job. The Workers’ Compensation system exists to protect both employers and employees when workplace injuries happen. If you are injured at work, report your injury immediately to your supervisor or employer and ask them to file a Workers’ Compensation claim.
Any delay or refusal to file a claim can be construed as violating state law and should be reported. If you have recently been injured at work and suspect foul play or other issues with a Workers’ Compensation claim – particularly if your employer asks you to use your own health insurance for treatment – contact The Armstrong Law Firm, PLC, in Tulsa, for seasoned advice and formidable representation.