Understanding Workers' Compensation Amidst COVID-19

The coronavirus has brought so many challenges to many industries around the world. The insurance industry is among the sectors that are trying to cope with the current situation. Suddenly, people realize that the value of having insurance in these difficult times. Many Americans are now considering insurance policy as a measure to survive the pandemic.

Among the insurance policies, workers’ compensation plays a significant role in helping employees affected by the COVID-19. Workers’ compensation is a kind of insurance for businesses covering the wage payment and medical benefits to employees who got injured or ill due to their occupation.
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As many companies are resuming operations to restart our economy, workers are concerned that they might catch COVID-19 while doing their jobs. Thus, it is crucial to understand workers' compensation amidst the pandemic.

Does Workers' Compensation Cover COVID-19?
Many workers are asking if they get infected by COVID-19, will worker’s compensation insurance cover their medical expenses? It is a tricky question that has no direct answer. Typically, flu, cold, and other infectious diseases are not covered by worker’s compensation since they are not considered workplace-related illnesses. However, the coronavirus came and changed everything.

The pandemic poses a unique challenge for insurers. Many jobs that are usually not classified as hazardous have suddenly become high-risk occupations due to the virus. Getting COVID-19 at the workplace has become a significant concern to American workers.
Before, working in a grocery store or public transport is not considered high-risk, but now, workers in these workplaces have the highest chances of getting infected with the virus. Suddenly, the pandemic is redefining high-risk jobs. However, it is still uncertain if workers’ compensation will cover COVID-19. It remains a work in progress.

How Are States Responding to the Pandemic?
States have a varying response to COVID-19 and workers’ compensation. Some states have already amended their policies to cope with the current situation. Several states allow employees to get workers' compensation if they can indicate that they acquire COVID-19 at work.

One common trend observed among the states is workers' compensation coverage for first responders, healthcare workers, and essential workers like grocery store personnel.

About 14 states have classified COVID-19 as work-related and include it in workers’ compensation coverage. In Wisconsin, Minnesota, Alaska, and Utah, the insurance coverage is being offered to healthcare personnel and first responders. In Kentucky and California, grocery store workers are covered by workers’ compensation since they are considered as essential workers.

Conclusion
Classifying COVID-19 as a work-related illness is an evolving issue. But one thing is sure COVID-19 will continue to alter the workplace. As an employer, it is advisable to get workers' compensation. Always keep in mind that protecting your workers is equivalent to securing your business operation.

At American Eagle Insurance, we do our best in making sure that our clients are well-protected with affordable and comprehensive policies. We make sure to go the extra mile to help you with your needs. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact our agency at (225) 667-7377 or Click Here to request a free quote.