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Compensation for occupational lung disease in non-mining industry
K C Goodman1, D Rees, R S Arkles
1National Centre for Occupational Health, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg.
Summary
Many occupational disease (OD) claims face delays, with 22% unresolved after 3 years. Difficulty obtaining employer documentation is a key issue, but targeted intervention can improve outcomes for workers seeking compensation.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Public Health Policy
- Socioeconomic Impact of Disease
Background:
- Workers' compensation systems aim to provide financial support for occupational diseases (ODs).
- The claims process, from submission to compensation, can be complex and lengthy.
- Identifying procedural bottlenecks is crucial for improving access to benefits for affected workers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To trace the claims process for occupational diseases from submission to compensation.
- To determine success rates and identify procedural factors influencing claim outcomes.
- To evaluate the impact of active intervention on claim resolution.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case review of 56 occupational disease claims.
- Analysis of claim submission, documentation, and resolution timelines.
- Assessment of factors contributing to claim non-resolution, including employer corroboration.
Main Results:
- A significant 22% of claims remained unresolved three years post-submission.
- Difficulty in obtaining employer documentation due to long OD latent periods was a major barrier.
- Active intervention by the National Centre for Occupational Health (NCOH) improved resolution rates by 9%.
Conclusions:
- The Workmen's Compensation Commissioner (WCC) should establish accessible support points for workers.
- Alternative documentation methods should be considered when employer proof is unobtainable.
- Streamlining the claims process is essential for timely compensation of occupational diseases.