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Published, Version of Record (VoR)Open Access via Drexel Libraries Read and Publish Program 2024CC BY V4.0, Open
Journal article
Inventory of state workers’ compensation laws in the United States: first responder mental health
Journal of public health policy, v 45, pp 562-574
12 Jul 2024
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Abstract
We conducted a comprehensive review of state workers’ compensation laws in the United States to evaluate the extent to which they support first responders with mental injury. Most state workers’ compensation systems divide mental injuries into categories based on their presumed etiology: physical-mental, mental-physical, and mental-mental. Major differences exist among states as to which workers are eligible. Proving workplace causation can be difficult where no traumatic physical injuries exist. Latency periods, time limits, preexisting health conditions, restrictions as to types of condition covered, and complex chains of causation may make this burden, which falls on the claimant, even more challenging. Only nine (9) states enacted presumption of causation laws for mental health conditions to ease claimants’ burden of proof. This contrasts starkly with presumption laws for chronic and infectious diseases. State decision-makers should create presumptions that mental health conditions in first responders are caused or significantly exacerbated by their stressful workplaces.
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Details
- Title
- Inventory of state workers’ compensation laws in the United States: first responder mental health
- Creators
- Jennifer A Taylor (Corresponding Author) - Drexel University, Environmental and Occupational HealthSherry I Brandt-Rauf - Drexel University, Environmental and Occupational HealthAndrea L Davis - Drexel University, Environmental and Occupational Health
- Publication Details
- Journal of public health policy, v 45, pp 562-574
- Publisher
- Springer Nature
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Environmental and Occupational Health
- Web of Science ID
- WOS:001270341800001
- Scopus ID
- 2-s2.0-85198498547
- Other Identifier
- 991021892515204721
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InCites Highlights
Data related to this publication, from InCites Benchmarking & Analytics tool:
- Web of Science research areas
- Health Care Sciences & Services
- Health Policy & Services
- Public, Environmental & Occupational Health