US Workers Comp System – A World Leader?
The US Workers Comp System has come under attack very often recently. I agree that isolated cases do occur – not a trend. What is the greatest way to find out what is going on internationally? Flying overseas always gives me a great idea of what is going on in certain countries.
I have spoken with Russian, Philippine, Chinese, and other pan-Asian countries concerning Workers Comp. Most countries do not even have a system that keeps an injured worker’s family going while one or the only major breadwinner is unable to work due to an on-the-job injury.
My simple poll of fellow plane passengers provided great information such as:
- Russia – you are out of luck. The injured workers usually keep working even though they have sustained what would be considered a major injury.
- Philippines – once again, you are out of luck on the wage replacement benefits. The Philippines provides PhilHealth. PhilHealth is basically the same as Medicaid.
- China – the system allows a worker to file a claim. The medical system is very corrupt between the large companies and their influence over physicians.
- Thailand – out of luck again – nothing really provided for an injured worker. There is some type of nationalized health insurance. The system is not as good when compared to PhilHealth.
These examples were generated from conversations with plane passengers. As we look to compete on a global basis, we must look at other countries’ Workers Compensation systems before we blast away at our own.
Somewhere in the world probably exists a better system. However, until someone points it out the US Workers Comp System leads the world in providing proper benefits to injured workers.
If someone knows of a better system, please comment below. I would love to have to stand corrected. I doubt I hear that the US Workers Comp system takes a backseat to another country.
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2 Responses
You would think that those countries would be receptive of medical travel for their injured workers to countries in their respective regions known for high quality medical care. At least the Philippines treats their workers, wage replacement is another matter.
Richard, one would think that most countries would have some type of full Workers Comp coverage for their employees. Could I just be an imperialistic American? Just from this quick Google search I found quality hospital care at a discount. PhilHealth is basically socialized medicine. I had a crown refixed for $36 for what would have cost $250 in the US. The dental office was sanitary, and used the same materials as US dental offices.
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