Advocating For Health Care Heroes

At Gesmer & Reynolds, P.C., our lawyers advocate for health care workers who sustain injuries on the job. These injuries can be devastating for both your personal and professional life. With over 50 years of combined experience, our attorneys understand the unique challenges nurses, CNAs, orderlies, paramedics, physical therapists, occupational therapists, surgical techs and home health aides face.

We Understand The Injuries You Face

Health care professionals are the backbone of our medical system. They often work in demanding environments where accidents can happen. The risks are numerous, including:

• Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs): Repetitive lifting, bending and awkward postures can lead to strains, sprains and back injuries. These can limit mobility and make it difficult to perform daily tasks, both at work and at home.
• Sharps injuries: Accidental pricks from needles or scalpels can transmit serious bloodborne illnesses. The emotional stress of potential infection can be significant, on top of any physical injury.
• Slips, trips and falls: Busy health care settings can have wet floors, cluttered walkways and uneven surfaces. These can lead to falls that cause broken bones, head injuries and other physical trauma.
• Workplace violence: Health care workers are at risk of assault from patients, visitors or even co-workers. These incidents can cause physical injuries, as well as emotional distress and PTSD.

Our workers’ compensation team comprehends the complexities of these injuries and the impact they can have on your livelihood.

Navigating Workers’ Compensation

When you experience an injury at work, you deserve compensation and support. Our knowledgeable attorneys will guide you through the workers’ compensation process, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way. We provide personalized attention to each case and advocate fiercely for the benefits you deserve.

At Gesmer & Reynolds, P.C., our attorneys approach each case with empathy and professionalism. We understand the physical, emotional and financial toll of workplace injuries, and we’re here to help you navigate the legal system confidently. We aim to secure the compensation you need to recover and move forward.

Health Care Worker Accidents FAQs

Here are some common questions injured workers have in Illinois:

What benefits am I entitled to under workers’ compensation if I get injured at work?

If injured at work, you are entitled to the following benefits under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act:

• Medical benefits
• Temporary total disability (TTD)
• Temporary partial disability (TPD)
• Permanent partial disability (PPD)
• Permanent total disability (PTD)
• Vocational rehabilitation

Additionally, if a work-related injury results in death, the employee’s dependents may receive benefits to cover funeral expenses and a portion of lost wages.

How do I file a workers’ compensation claim after sustaining a work-related injury?

Filing a workers’ compensation claim in Illinois involves several steps:

• Notify your employer about the injury within 45 days (ideally, right away)
• Keep detailed records of the injury, medical treatments and any communications with your employer and insurance company
• Complete and submit a claim form

However, you can file a claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC) if your employer does not cooperate.

What should I do if my workers’ compensation claim is denied?

If your claim is denied in Illinois, you can file an appeal with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission. It involves submitting a formal application to adjust the claim.

The IWCC will schedule a hearing at which you can present your case. It is advisable to have legal representation during this process to advocate for your interests.

Can I choose my own doctor for the treatment of my work-related injury?

You have some flexibility in choosing your doctor for treating a work-related injury, but there are specific guidelines:

Illinois uses a “two doctor” rule, so you can pick any medical provider you want from your employer’s Preferred Provider Program (PPP). If you choose, you can change to any second PPP doctor at will. If your employer does not have a PPP, you can choose any doctor you want and make a one-time switch to any other doctor at will.

Emergency care for your injury before your claim does not count as one of your choices, nor does a specialist to whom you were referred by your primary care provider.

Contact Us For A Free Consultation

If you’ve been injured while working in the health care industry, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and determine the next steps. Located in Rockford, we proudly serve clients throughout the surrounding area, including the Chicago suburbs and southern Wisconsin. Contact us today at 815-216-9471 or visit our online contact page to schedule an appointment. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve.