Supporting Employees Through The Workman's Compensation Process

Having an employee injured on the job is every boss' nightmare, but there are plenty of steps that you can take to make the process more comfortable for everyone. Here are some ways to help your employee out with their workers' compensation claims.

Spell Out the Procedure

The first thing to do is to make sure that your workmans compensation policy is transparent. You should have a pamphlet on hand (or a section in your employee handbook) that details everything your employee will need to know about successful workmans compensation insurance claims. This includes the steps to take, the employee's responsibilities, and details of your insurance plan (including contact information, plan rules and a list of approved care providers if needed). 

Support the Application Process

You can also show your employee support by actively following up on their claim process. Some steps must be initiated by the employer. You will be the one to open a claim with your workers' compensation insurance company. You can also play a role in gathering documentation of the workplace accident. It's also helpful to make sure that your employee is submitting the right information to the insurance company. 

Designate a Lawyer

Having a workers' compensation lawyer on hand is beneficial for speeding the process along. Although the lawyer will represent your business, you can choose an attorney who is sympathetic to both you and your employee's needs throughout the claims process. Hiring a lawyer doesn't need to represent a hostile or competitive move against the employee; your lawyer may simply be a legal representative who understands the workers' compensation process and helps to make life easier for all parties involved. You can bring in a lawyer from the very beginning or wait to use their help only if you are experiencing some difficulties in getting the workers' compensation claim approved. 

Ask How You Can Help

Being injured on the job can damage the employee's relationship to the company if it's not handled well, but it can also be a great loyalty booster when it's done correctly. This is your opportunity to truly show that you care about your employee by being proactive in helping them get through the ordeal. Instead of waiting for feedback or complaints from your employee about the process, proactively ask what you can do to make their healing smoother. Some ideas that come to mind are additional PTO or unpaid leave, helping them rearrange their desk or providing equipment to make them more comfortable, and rearranging project loads so that they can ease back into work.