Is Coronavirus Covered by Workers’ Compensation?

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 is creating unprecedented issues for employers and employees across the United States. Experts believe that as more people are diagnosed with coronavirus, there will likely be a surge in workers’ compensation claims related to the respiratory disease caused by the virus. This has many employees wondering if their illness could be covered by workers’ compensation.

Is Coronavirus Covered by Workers’ Compensation?

Occupational diseases are sometimes covered by workers’ compensation. However, there has never been a disease quite like the coronavirus now plaguing the nation. This is likely to result in many states considering their options for compensability.

Currently, two states – Kentucky and Washington – have announced plans to cover coronavirus-related occupational illnesses. Right now, their coverage is primarily geared toward first responders and healthcare employees. However, both states say that they will consider coronavirus-related claims on a case-by-case basis. While this may not offer much comfort to people in the other 48 states, it is the first sign of states making changes that will help their workforce recover from the coronavirus pandemic.

Both Kentucky and Washington plan to cover wages and medical costs of first responders and healthcare workers who are quarantined due to exposure to coronavirus. Neither state has provided details about their coverage, other than their plans to help workers as much as possible.

National Council on Compensation Insurance Monitoring Situation

The National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI) is closely monitoring the situation and the possibility that more states will follow Kentucky and Washington. The NCCI says that 10 states have issued mandates for health insurers to include coverage of coronavirus. Coverage would include testing, emergency room or urgent care visits, and possibly more.

The NCCI hopes that expanding health insurance coverage will relieve some of the pressure on employees and also reduce the number of workers’ compensation claims filed as the coronavirus outbreak continues to move through the country.

With unprecedented issues affecting millions of Americans, it is more important than ever for workers to find out about their specific coverage and claim options. The best way to do this is to speak with an attorney who can review your situation and determine the best way to protect your rights and get the compensation that you need.