Why most workers with occupational repetitive trauma do not file for workers' compensation

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Workers' compensation systems aim to provide benefits for work-related injuries and illnesses.
• Despite this, a significant number of workers diagnosed with occupational diseases do not file claims.
• Understanding the reasons behind this underutilization is crucial for improving access to benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the factors influencing workers' decisions to file for workers' compensation benefits after a diagnosis of work-related musculoskeletal disease.
• To identify characteristics of workers and their conditions associated with claim filing.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study interviewed 1598 individuals diagnosed with work-related musculoskeletal disorders.
• Data collected via standardized telephone questionnaires included demographics, health status, and attitudes.
• Statistical analysis identified factors significantly associated with filing a workers' compensation claim.

Main Results:

• Only 25% of eligible workers filed a workers' compensation claim.
• Key predictors for filing included increased severity of illness, longer employment duration, lower annual income, and dissatisfaction with coworkers.
• Physician restrictions, type of physician seen (specialists, physical/occupational therapists), and time off work also influenced claim filing.

Conclusions:

• The study refutes the perception that most workers with occupational conditions file claims.
• Severity of the condition and specific demographic and employment factors are strong predictors of claim filing.
• Findings highlight potential barriers or facilitators in the workers' compensation system, particularly for unionized autoworkers.