Workers' Compensation Legislation Addressing COVID-19

This guide discusses the legislative and regulatory actions taken in response to COVID-19 concerning workers' compensation, particularly for essential workers. It outlines the challenges faced by healthcare workers and first responders, including the increased risk of infection and the implications for workers' compensation claims. The document details presumption laws being considered by various states, which would allow COVID-19 infections to be presumed work-related for essential workers. It also addresses care interruptions due to the pandemic, including modifications to pharmacy care and the rise of telemedicine as a solution for ongoing treatment. Furthermore, it highlights operational interruptions affecting both insurance providers and employees working from home, including the shift to virtual hearings and the challenges of managing claims. The guide concludes with a discussion on the potential long-term impacts on the workers' compensation industry post-pandemic, including changes to claims processes and workplace safety protocols.