You’d think that individuals who work in the medical field don’t have to worry about suffering a workplace accident, right?

Wrong.

During 2020 alone, the healthcare and social assistance industry saw a 40% increase in workplace injuries and occupational illnesses. Over 50% of these cases required one or more days off of work to recover. What kind of workplace injuries and illnesses are healthcare workers at risk of? 

Let’s break it down.

Repetitive Stress Injuries

Repetitive Stress Injuries, or RSIs, are injuries that develop over time due to repeated motions and strains over a long period. Those who work in the medical field are at a greater risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders because of the nature of daily duties in the healthcare environment.

Nursing assistants had the highest rates of musculoskeletal disorders in 2020 – according to OSHA, there were 15,360 cases, which made up 52% of all workplace injuries that required days away from work.

Repetitive Stress Injuries can be tricky to prove since they are not caused by one incident, but an accumulation of strained movements over time. However, the right workers’ compensation attorney can gather the evidence you need for your workers’ compensation claim, and fight for the compensation you need.

Workplace Violence

Healthcare professionals work long hours saving lives and helping their patients – unfortunately, it’s common for those in this field to be confronted with violent patients. The American Hospital Association (AHA) reported that healthcare workers suffer more personal injuries caused by workplace violence than any other profession. According to AHA, 44% of nurses report an increase in workplace violence and 68% report an increase in verbal abuse since the COVID-19 pandemic.

If you have been assaulted by a coworker or a client, contact a workers’ compensation lawyer as soon as possible.

Exposure to Substances

Doctors, nurses, lab techs, and anyone else working in the medical field is at risk of being exposed to hazardous substances that can cause occupational illnesses and injuries. Some of these substances that pose a threat in the workplace include, but are not limited to…

  • Biological waste.
  • Harsh chemicals.
  • Bloodborne pathogens.
  • Airborne pathogens.

As long as it can be proven that your occupational illness was contracted in the workplace, you are eligible for workers’ compensation. A skilled attorney can help you gather the proof you need to accomplish this and strengthen your claim.

If you or a loved one have suffered a workplace injury or occupational illness, contact us as soon as possible to schedule your initial consultation for free legal advice from an experienced Columbia workers’ compensation attorney near you. We’ll guide you through the workers’ compensation process and fight for the compensation you deserve.