DBA Attorneys
For Healthcare Workers

DBA Compensation for Healthcare Workers

Medical personnel play an essential role on military bases, providing critical healthcare services to both military personnel and civilian contractors. These dedicated professionals work under challenging and often dangerous conditions, ensuring the well-being and readiness of those serving in defense of our country.

However, given the inherent risks involved in working overseas on a military base, healthcare workers often become ill or injured while working abroad. For this reason, it is crucial that civilian contractor medical personnel are aware of their rights under the Defense Base Act (DBA), which provides compensation for injuries and illnesses sustained while performing their duties abroad.

In this article, the experienced DBA attorneys at Cantrell Green explain what you need to know to protect your rights and obtain the maximum DBA benefits for which you qualify, if you or a family member was a healthcare worker who became ill or injured while working as a contractor overseas.

Common Injuries of Healthcare Workers on Military Bases

Medical personnel on military bases face a unique set of risks due to the nature of their work environment. Some of the most common types of injuries suffered by these professionals include the following.

Lifting and moving patients, as well as performing repetitive tasks, can lead to musculoskeletal injuries such as back pain, strains, and sprains. These injuries are particularly common among nurses and paramedics who frequently handle heavy equipment and patients.

Medical personnel may be exposed to hazardous chemicals, such as disinfectants and medications, which can cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, and other health problems.

Medical personnel are at a higher risk of contracting infectious diseases due to their close contact with patients. This includes exposure to bloodborne pathogens, respiratory infections, viruses (including Covid-19) and other contagious diseases that can result in serious health complications.

Working in high-stress environments, particularly in conflict zones, can lead to psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. The mental health impact of providing medical care in such settings should not be underestimated.

Example DBA Medical Personnel Cases

There have been several notable cases involving DBA claims for medical personnel. One such case involved a nurse who sustained a back injury while lifting a patient on a military base in Afghanistan. Despite initial resistance from the employer, the nurse successfully secured DBA compensation with the help of an experienced DBA attorney. The compensation covered medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs, allowing the nurse to recover without financial strain.

In another instance, a paramedic contracted a severe respiratory infection while working in a conflict zone. The paramedic’s DBA claim was initially denied by the insurance company. However, through legal intervention and detailed medical documentation, the claim was eventually approved, and the paramedic received the necessary compensation for medical treatment and lost income.

These cases highlight the importance of having expert legal representation to navigate the complexities of DBA claims and ensure that injured medical personnel receive the benefits they are entitled to.

When Can Healthcare Workers Get DBA Benefits?

Medical personnel working under U.S. government contracts outside the continental United States are covered by the Defense Base Act. This includes doctors, nurses, paramedics, and other healthcare providers employed by contractors or subcontractors engaged in work related to U.S. national defense or public works. To qualify for DBA compensation, the injury or illness must be work-related, meaning it occurred while the medical personnel were performing their job duties or as a result of their employment conditions.

DBA compensation covers a wide range of benefits, including medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits. It is important for injured medical personnel to report their injuries promptly and provide detailed documentation to support their claims. Timely reporting and thorough documentation can significantly improve the chances of securing the compensation they deserve.

Why Healthcare Workers Need a DBA Attorney

Navigating the DBA claims process can be challenging, particularly for medical personnel dealing with the aftermath of an injury or illness. An experienced DBA attorney can provide invaluable assistance by ensuring that all necessary documentation is accurately prepared and submitted on time.

A skilled DBA attorney can also help gather and submit evidence, such as medical records and witness statements, so that you can focus on your mental and physical health.

The experienced DBA attorneys at Cantrell Green are well-versed in the nuances of complicated DBA law and can advocate on behalf of the injured healthcare worker, including negotiating with insurance companies and representing the claimant in administrative hearings or court proceedings if necessary. Studies have shown that having a knowledgeable DBA attorney handle your case significantly increases the likelihood of a successful claim, ensuring that medical personnel receive the maximum DBA benefits for which they qualify.

Defense Base Act (DBA) Attorney for Healthcare Workers

Medical personnel on military bases play a vital role in maintaining the health and readiness of those serving in defense of our country. The Defense Base Act provides essential protections and compensation for these professionals when they suffer work-related injuries or illnesses.

Navigating the DBA claims process can be complex, but with the help of an experienced DBA attorney, injured medical personnel can secure the compensation they need to recover and get their life back on track.

At Cantrell Green, our dedicated team of California DBA attorneys is committed to supporting medical personnel in their pursuit of DBA benefits. If you or a loved one is a healthcare worker who has been injured while providing medical care on a military base, contact our DBA attorneys for expert assistance with your claim.