MedExtra Medical Solutions

INSURANCE COVERAGE IMPLICATIONS OF AN EMPLOYEE WHO SUFFERED A BRAIN INJURY

Head and brain injuries can have devastating, life changing effects for both victims and their families. A head injury or brain injury can have serious or even fatal consequences.

Therefore, Canadian health and safety laws make specific requirements for employers to assess and minimize the risk of their staff being injured by falls, a falling object, or being crushed.

Traumatic brain injury is often called an invisible injury. Employees with brain injuries may seem fully recovered, especially if they have no physical disabilities, but cognitive, emotional, and behavioral problems may linger and appear when the employee is stressed.

Recovery following a brain injury may be measured in weeks, months or years. Many employees with mild brain injuries experience complete recovery. Some with severe brain injuries experience only mild long-term difficulties. Others may require care or special services for the rest of their lives.

Having the proper insurance policy in place will determine how much compensation you are owed for your injuries. With that in mind, here is a general idea of some of the items you might be able to receive compensation for:

• Medical bills and associated medical costs
• Loss of work wages and future wages if unable to return to work
• Physical pain
• Mental suffering and stress
• Loss of the enjoyment of your life

And although the outcome for employees with brain injuries may initially seem dire, many recover. Rehabilitation helps promote recovery through a return to work, family and community. Most employees will adapt over time in a structured, supportive environment at their place of employment.