First responders, including police officers, paramedics and firefighters, daily risk harm in protecting and serving their communities. They see difficult events and are at risk of developing PTSD. Contrary to common understanding, however, qualification for PERA?MSRS disability does not rely on a single firearms-related event but rather on cumulative effects.
PTSD Presumption Legislation in Minnesota
Due to recent legislation in Minnesota, PTSD for first responders no longer depends on proof of work-related causes. It’s presumed. While PTSD is new to law, and insurers and employers may initially deny a claim, the value of a claim remains valid.
Who Does PTSD Presumption Cover?
A common qualifier between civilian workers and first responders is the DSM-V standard. Work-related cause for first responders, however, is presumed. These positions include:
- Police officers
- State troopers
- Sheriff deputies
- Paramedics
- Firefighters
- Emergency medical technicians
- Correctional officers
- Dispatchers
Qualification for MSRS or PERA
MSRS and PERA recognize PTSD as a disabled condition and regard it the same as a physical injury. Members of the MSRS State Trooper or PERA Police and Fire plans may qualify for a PTSD workers compensation claim in Minnesota with a work-related PTSD diagnosis.
Death and Dependency-Related Benefits for Families
Despite greater recognition, police officers, paramedics, firefighters and other first responders sometimes resort to unhealthy coping behavior and can even end in suicide. Families dealing with the suicide of a first responder can find financial security through death and dependency-related benefits.
PTSD Workers Compensation for Non-First Responders
PTSD is not limited to employment in the military or the police force. The threat or incidence of assault or violence in the workplace has been recognized as a cause of PTSD. If PTSD is shown to be caused by work duties, a PTSD workers compensation claim in Minnesota is valid.
For guidance and a complete understanding of rights and options in terms of workers compensation, claimants should consult an attorney with PERA/MSRS experience.
