Work-related trauma, PTSD, and workers compensation legislation: Implications for practice and policy

Psychological Trauma : Theory, Research, Practice and Policy
Edward A Wise, J Gayle Beck

Abstract

The current review examines work-related traumatic events, with particular focus on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a potential mental health outcome. Despite considerable empirical knowledge about trauma and PTSD, a gap exists with respect to laws undergirding Workers Compensation (WC) insurance coverage for work-related mental health injuries. In this article, state and federal WC statutes are examined with an eye toward coverage of PTSD following work-related trauma. Examples of differences between states, as well as state-specific idiosyncratic facets of WC laws, are discussed. Federal WC programs are also examined. Two policy issues are highlighted: (a) lack of parity between WC coverage for work-related physical versus mental health injuries and (b) lack of reliance on psychological science in scripting legislation and determining WC benefits. The cost of untreated PTSD following work-related trauma is examined, focusing on costs to the individual, the employer, and society at large. The authors provide 3 recommendations designed to address discrepancies related to compensable psychological injuries following work-related trauma exposure.

Citations

Mar 7, 2017·International Journal of Law and Psychiatry·Gerald Young
Jul 4, 2020·Journal of Occupational Rehabilitation·Michael J KyronDavid Lawrence
Jul 14, 2020·Industrial Health·Stefano M CanduraFabrizio Scafa
Feb 23, 2021·Work : a Journal of Prevention, Assessment, and Rehabilitation·D Van EerdM Tiong

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