What is Workers’ Compensation?
If you experience a job-related injury or illness, the Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act provides coverage for your medical expenses. If you’re unable to work due to the injury, the Act also offers wage-loss compensation benefits until you can return to work. In the event of a work-related fatality, dependent survivors may receive death benefits.
Workers’ compensation benefits are provided by:
- Private insurance companies, including third-party administrators.
- The State Workers’ Insurance Fund (SWIF), a state-run workers’ compensation insurance carrier.
- Self-insured employers.
For detailed information, visit the PA Department of Labor and Industry’s Workers’ Compensation page.
Who is Covered?
Almost all Pennsylvania workers are covered by the Workers’ Compensation Act. This includes:
- Full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees.
- Employees of nonprofit corporations and unincorporated businesses.
- Employers with just one employee are required to comply with the Act.
What is Covered?
You may be entitled to workers’ compensation for:
- Injuries, illnesses, or diseases caused by your work.
Exclusions:
Compensation is not provided for:
- Self-inflicted injuries or injuries resulting from violations of the law, such as the illegal use of drugs.
- Injuries or deaths caused by intoxication.
When am I Covered?
Your coverage begins on your date of hire.
Choosing a Health Care Provider
You have the right to select your own health care provider unless your employer:
- Accepts your claim.
- Has posted a list of six or more approved physicians or health care providers in the workplace.
If a list is posted:
- You must choose a provider from the list for initial treatment.
- You are required to continue treatment with a provider on the list for 90 days from your first visit.
- You may select any provider from the list—your employer cannot require you to see a specific one.
After 90 days, you may choose any qualified provider for ongoing care.
This information is accurate as of the latest updates provided by the PA Department of Labor and Industry.
Need Care for a Work-Related Injury?
Contact Wyckoff Chiropractic and Wellness to learn how we can help you recover and get back to work.