Due to precautions related to COVID-19, we have expanded our options for remote consultations. Please contact our office to discuss whether a full phone consultation or video conference is appropriate for your situation.

Hurt as an emergency medical technician? You may receive workers’ compensation

On Behalf of | Sep 8, 2020 | Workers' Compensation

Working in Lexington, you’re in one of the best hospital systems in the community. You work long hours, but you have good support from team members.

Still, it can be overwhelming. As an emergency medical technician, you’re always lifting patients, performing emergency procedures and working in high-stress environments. You may have to deal with violent or terrified patients, and you could get hurt.

Did you know that over 20,000 volunteer and career EMTs, and Emergency Medical Service personnel end up going to the emergency room each year because of work-related injuries? In fact, the rate of injury for EMTs and personnel is around four times higher than those in other jobs. It’s a high-stress, high-risk job, but those who do it are there to save lives.

What kinds of hazards do EMTs face?

EMTs face many kinds of hazards on the job, such as:

  • Violent patients
  • Traffic accidents
  • Needle sticks
  • Exposure to viruses/contagions
  • Stress
  • Verbal abuse
  • Lifting heavy patients or lifting from awkward angles
  • Falls when working on stairs, balconies or other locations

Needless to say, these workers face many dangers when they’re on the job. They have to put their patients’ needs first, but they are often exposed to hazardous conditions, like trying to help patients trapped in a vehicle on a busy roadway. As a result, many EMTs do end up with injuries that need to be treated in the hospital.

Can EMTs get workers’ compensation?

Usually, yes. When EMTs are hired through a hospital group or transport group, then their employer should have workers’ compensation coverage. Sometimes, volunteers and independent EMTs will not have coverage and will need to purchase their own insurance.

If you’re working with UK HealthCare, Baptist Health or other local hospitals and are working for that hospital specifically, then you should be covered by workers’ compensation as a normal employee. If you work for an ambulance/transport group, then that employer should have insurance coverage for you as well. If you’re hurt, reach out to your employer to discuss making a claim for compensation that will support you as you focus on your health and recovery.