In order to receive the healthcare and benefits you deserve, if you are a qualified former energy, atomic, or uranium worker, you will need to get something called an impairment rating.
So, what even is an impairment rating?
Those approved under Part E of the Energy Employees Compensation Program (EEOICPA) are eligible to receive monetary and medical compensation. These benefits are determined through your impairment rating. A permanent function loss of any body part, including your organs, caused by an accepted illness based on your work history is taken into consideration for this rating. The permanence of your function loss is conditional on whether or not it is likely to improve with the correct treatment. If it is unlikely to ever get better, it counts as permanent and is considered for your rating.
How often can I update this rating?
You are able to get your impairment rating reassessed every 2 years. Your health has the potential to worsen over time, and you’ll want to keep this updated to receive your maximum compensation. You can also request a new impairment evaluation any time a new illness is accepted.
How much compensation will I get?
This amount is dependent upon your impairment rating. Typically, any 1% of permanent function loss means you will receive $2,500. Your doctor will determine these percentages on each individual body part and organ. Say your impairment rating is 50%. You would multiply the $2,500 by .50, meaning you should receive $125,000. There is a cap of $250,000 per claimant through the EEOICPA. An approved medical expense is NOT subject to the $250,000 maximum and will be paid.
Your doctor may not be eligible to complete this impairment assessment.
Whoever completes this assessment must be approved by the Department of Labor. There are many certifications the doctor must have.
These benefits can be life-changing. Dealing with the details of this process can be overwhelming, and we are passionate about helping those who deserve compensation get what they need. Please reach out if you are interested in beginning this process for yourself or a loved one.