In Minnesota, workers’ compensation (WC) is a state-mandated insurance program provided by employers to all of their employees. This means that if you get injured or sick while on the clock, you can file a claim to seek financial support for your treatments and lost wages.
Here are three things you need to know about the state’s workers’ comp benefits:
What types of benefits does WC cover?
Your WC insurance can pay for your necessary medical treatments and/or supplies. This can include your doctor fees, surgery costs, hospital bills and psychological treatment expenses.
Your WC can also compensate for your lost wages if your workplace accident has caused you a temporary or permanent disability.
After I report my injury to my employer, can I go to my doctor?
Yes, you can go to your own doctor to seek prompt treatment of your work-related injury or illness. Your employer can only require you to see their designated doctor if they are a part of a collective bargaining agreement that mentions the use of exclusive health care providers.
Additionally, if you live within a 15-mile radius from a pharmacy, your employer can ask you to buy your outpatient prescription and nonprescription medications from there instead of a hospital’s.
What if I need rehabilitation for my injury?
If you need rehab for your injury, you must file a rehabilitation consultation request with your employer. In this process, they will assess your condition with their WC insurer and determine whether your injury is severe enough to require the benefit.
By understanding the Minnesota workers’ compensation laws and following the proper process, you can file your claim and receive financial help for your injury or illness.