What is Occupational Disease?
An illness or health condition caused by exposure to risk factors in the workplace, as opposed to a sudden traumatic injury.
Understanding Occupational Disease
Occupational diseases develop gradually from repeated exposure to hazardous conditions. Examples include hearing loss from noise, respiratory illness from chemicals, and repetitive stress injuries. These conditions are covered by workers' compensation but may be harder to prove.
Examples
- 1Mesothelioma from asbestos exposure
- 2Hearing loss from factory noise
- 3Carpal tunnel from repetitive typing
Related Terms
Workers' Compensation
A state-mandated insurance program providing benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses, regardless of fault.
Temporary Total Disability (TTD)
Workers' compensation benefits paid when an injured worker is completely unable to work for a temporary period while recovering from a work injury.
Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
The point in recovery when a worker's condition has stabilized and further medical treatment is unlikely to result in significant improvement.
Independent Medical Examination (IME)
A medical evaluation performed by a doctor who has not previously treated the patient, typically requested by an insurance company or employer to assess the injury claim.
Qualified Medical Examiner (QME)
A physician certified by the state to conduct independent medical evaluations in workers' compensation cases. QMEs provide objective opinions on injuries, treatment, and disability ratings.
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