By providing prompt care to an injured worker, it may be possible to keep workers’ compensation costs down for New Jersey employers. In 30 percent of cases, a worker may be able to self-treat an injury, which would eliminate the need for a trip to the emergency room that could cost $1,000 or more. However, employers should always proper care regardless of what is needed to help an employee recover and get back to work.
When an employee reports an injury and seeks treatment, the first person that he or she should talk to is a triage nurse. Workers tend to be more open and honest when talking to a medical professional instead of a claims representative. Nurses may also be better at recording key details regarding the injury and how it occurred in a timely manner.
Employers should be engaged with employees throughout the claim process and review a pending claim regularly. Initial statements should be recorded and referred to at regular intervals. Employer engagement can reduce employee frustration and make it less likely that he or she will seek the help of an attorney to resolve the case instead. When both sides work together, it may be possible to come to a mutually beneficial resolution that provides for the worker while controlling costs for the employer.
A worker who is hurt on the job may be entitled to disability benefits, which may be offered on a temporary basis or permanently depending on the severity of the injury, and they may help a worker pay medical expenses and other living expenses. An attorney may be able to review a case to determine what type of benefits an individual may be entitled to and how long such benefits will be offered for.