What healthcare workers can do after a workplace injury

Your dedication as a healthcare worker matters, but so does your well-being when an on-the-job injury occurs. San Mateo healthcare workers face risks such as patient handling accidents and workplace violence. California workers’ compensation may provide benefits for medical care and lost wages, helping you take the right steps after an injury

Injuries that can happen on the job

Your work may expose you to injuries from lifting or moving patients, slips and falls, needlesticks or physical attacks. You may also develop a condition over time because of repeated work activities. If your job causes an injury or illness, workers’ compensation may help cover the medical care you need and other benefits available under California law.

Support you may receive after a work injury

A work-related injury may qualify you for several types of support, including:

• Medical care: Treatment related to your workplace injury or illness may be available.
• Temporary disability: A portion of your wages may be available if your injury keeps you from working during recovery.
• Permanent disability: You may receive payments if your injury leaves lasting limits on your ability to work.
• Return-to-work support: You may receive assistance with modified duties while you recover.
• Job displacement: If your injury results in a permanent partial disability and your employer cannot offer you modified or alternative work, you may qualify for a voucher for retraining or skill development.

These benefits can help you handle medical expenses and income changes while you recover from a workplace injury.

Reporting the injury and starting your claim

Report your work-related injury to your employer promptly and seek medical care. Keep records of your injury, treatment and missed work. You can then file a workers’ compensation claim to seek benefits for your medical care and lost wages.

The County then submits the workers’ compensation claim to its third-party administrator. Following these steps promptly can help you begin the claims process and access available work injury benefits.

Support for injured healthcare workers

Your work involves caring for others, but your well-being matters too. Report your injury promptly, keep records, follow your treatment plan and seek the workers’ compensation benefits available for your work-related injury. Taking timely action can help you protect your rights and focus on recovery.