How to File a Workers’ Comp Claim in Ohio
Ohio’s workers’ compensation program may be difficult to comprehend, especially during the unfortunate occurrence of an injury. However, it is important for you to understand the steps necessary to file a comp claim, as well as what to expect throughout the process.
Workers’ compensation is a program designed to help employees in a time of need. It acts as a type of insurance that includes, but is not limited to, wage replacement and medical benefits. Ohio’s Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (“BWC”) is a government agency that covers any work-related injury in the state of Ohio, unless the injury is self-inflicted or the result of horseplay.
In the event of an injury, it is of vital importance that you keep a thorough record of everything that happens, including copies of all paperwork. This way your claim will be recognized accordingly and all possible benefits can be obtainable. The BWC oversees this process from beginning to end and has the authority to allow or disallow your claim depending on the information they receive. Therefore, it is critical to be as detailed in your account as possible.However, a BWC decision can be appealed by either side to the industrial commission which is the department that does workers’ compensation hearings.
When an injury occurs, your employer should be notified immediately. Make an incident report regarding the exact events that transpired. A very detailed and comprehensive first account is crucial to filing a successful claim and will make everything easier down the road. Subsequently, seek medical attention. In the state of Ohio, an injured worker has the right to choose any medical provider so long as they are certified through the BWC and willing to accept payment from the workers’ compensation system. Your medical provider will submit an injury report electronically or will fax the First Report of Injury, Occupational Disease or Death (FROI-1) form to your BWC’s Managed Care Organization (“MCO”), within 24 hours. MCOs works alongside the BWC to manage the medical portion of workers’ compensation claims. You should ultimately come to an Attorney’s office to file the claim becasue the Emergency Room does not always file the claim or file it properly.
It is important to follow-up with the BWC to make sure a claim has been filed and to be sure of the timeline of events after your initial filing. At Taubman Law we will help every step of the way.
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This post was written by Cleveland attorney Bruce D. Taubman, who practices workers’ compensation, personal injury and medical malpractice throughout Ohio.
