Document Workplace Injuries As Soon As Possible
In many occupations, workplace injuries are common occurrences, but injured employees should seek medical attention right away. Without proper medical evaluation, it is difficult to prove that your injury was caused by your employer’s negligence or defective equipment in the workplace. This can make it difficult to place a workplace injury claim and get workers’ compensation coverage for medical expenses.
When you incur a serious injury at work, it is essential to call the local paramedics who will provide emergency treatment before rushing you to a hospital. For a less serious workplace injury, an employer may send you to an urgent care clinic for an evaluation. Your employer will request documentation of your injuries, but you should also receive copies of all of the examination forms and test results. You should keep copies of these in multiple locations to provide to insurance companies, government agencies, or attorneys.
Undergoing Urine and Blood Tests
It is likely that you will require an examination in a timely manner, and the evaluation will include collecting blood or urine samples to determine if you were impaired by alcohol or drugs when you were injured. A positive test for illegal substances can make it impossible for you to collect a workers’ compensation claim or other benefits for your temporary or permanent injuries. While a medical facility such as an urgent care center is considered a third party during these examinations, it is a good idea to bring along a relative to help you.
What Are Some of the Most Common Workplace Injuries?
Occupational injuries can occur for a variety of reasons, and you may only have a minor laceration or a sprained back, but these conditions can become worse from an infection or other causes. It is never a good idea to avoid a physical examination that is required by your employer because it can lead to financial and legal difficulties later.
Some of the injuries that can occur in the workplace include:
- Exposure to dangerous chemicals
- A variety of burn injuries
- Vehicular injuries from trucks or heavy-duty equipment
- Accidental amputations of fingers, hands. feet or legs
- Falling or slipping from high levels or on wet floors
- Fractures from pressure or hard blows
- Sprains or strains from lifting and moving heavy objects
- Eye injuries from flying projectiles
- Contamination from pathogens
- Concussions from falling objects
- Inhaling toxic substances
- Hearing loss from loud noises or explosions
- Repetitive motion injuries
An on-the-job injury can occur suddenly or, alternatively, it may occur from multiple exposures to dangerous conditions.
What happens during a urinalysis after a workplace accident?
Under OSHA regulations, an employer must have reasonable suspicion that you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol during the time of the accident to require a drug test. Your employer will notify a testing facility, like WellCare Urgent Care, that you are coming in for a test. You will be given a urine test to check your system for illicit drugs or alcohol. It is important to notify your test provider of any current medications you are taking. If you fail your drug test, your worker's compensation may be affected.
How much injury leave will I obtain for a work-related injury?
Injury leave is dependent on the type of injury received. If it is a minor injury, you will be able to head home after a physician examines you. Maintaining contact with both your doctor and employer is vital to proper healing and compensation during leave. With severe injuries in which you cannot return, you may receive benefits continuously all your life, though the amount will be reduced as you become a senior.
What is the most common workplace injury?
Strains are one of the most common workplace injuries, and most commonly occur in the neck and back. Repetitive motions that over-exert the muscles build up into strains, but these injuries can also occur rapidly from slipping or tripping on a wet floor. Exercising caution in the workplace, and utilizing aids when necessary, can help you avoid muscle strains.
What are the big 4 OSHA construction hazards?
According to OSHA, the threats that could lead to severe injury are falls, electrocution, caught-in, and stuck-by hazards. While the first two a relatively self-explanatory, caught-in and struck-by hazards may be a little less clear. Caught-in hazards happen when a construction worker enters a trench or excavation site without the proper protective systems in place-- this mistake can be fatal. Struck-by incidences can occur when the employee is struck by a falling object, moving object, or swinging object. Failure to follow safety protocols around potentially hazardous mechanisms can be fatal, which is why employers and employees must work together to avoid injuries.
When will I be able to return to work?
Every injury is different, and the recovery process may not look the same for everyone. The best way to be sure you're ready for work is to keep in regular contact with your doctor. If they have not cleared you for work, you should not return. If you feel yourself returning to normal and are feeling ready to head back in, consult your doctor. Returning to normal too soon could result in re-injury.
What should I do immediately after being injured at work?
If you suffer an injury on the job, it’s important to act quickly to protect both your health and your rights. Stop work immediately and notify your supervisor about the incident as soon as possible. Depending on the type of injury, apply basic first aid, such as cleaning and bandaging a minor cut or resting a sprained joint, then seek prompt medical evaluation.
Do I need to report my injury to my employer right away?
Reporting your injury immediately ensures that your employer can begin the workers’ compensation process and that you receive timely care. Delaying your report could make it harder to prove that the injury occurred on the job, which may affect your eligibility for benefits. At WellCare Urgent Care, our team provides thorough medical evaluations and detailed documentation to help you and your employer maintain compliance while ensuring your recovery stays on track.
Will my medical expenses be covered under workers’ compensation?
In most cases, yes. Workers’ compensation insurance typically covers the cost of medical visits, diagnostic testing, and any necessary treatments for work-related injuries. This includes follow-up visits, physical therapy, and prescriptions when applicable. Our staff is experienced in occupational medicine and ensures that all required forms, test results, and progress reports are submitted accurately and promptly.
What documentation do I need for a work-related injury claim?
Documentation is essential for both your treatment and your workers’ compensation claim. You will need to provide details about how and when the injury occurred, witness statements if available, and any initial reports made to your employer. This helps your employer and insurer confirm the nature of your injury and ensures that you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.
Can I choose my own doctor for the treatment of a workplace injury?
Depending on state laws and your employer’s workers’ compensation policy, you may be required to visit an approved medical provider. However, many employers partner directly with clinics to serve as the designated provider for workplace injuries. At WellCare Urgent Care, our experienced medical professionals deliver prompt evaluation, evidence-based treatment, and ongoing care until you’re ready to return to work safely.
Come into WellCare
If you have sustained a work-related injury seek medical care immediately. Not only will this be helpful in making sure you are not seriously harmed but can also provide documentation for the injury. WellCare Urgent Care in Grand Rapids is dedicated to helping out our patients. You can book a same-day appointment online at our Cascade and Leonard locations.
