The Zadroga Bill Explained

Workers who sacrificed their time and their lives to assist with rescue and clean-up efforts after the attacks of September 11, 2001 are finally eligible for federally sponsored medical benefits. The recently passed Zadroga bill, named after World Trade Center (WTC) police officer James Zadroga, will provide much needed medical insurance for workers and their families.

If eligible for benefits, 9/11 workers and their surviving family members will be entitled to all medically necessary treatment for their condition. Many questions about this medical insurance remain for Ground Zero workers suffering from serious medical conditions as a result of their bravery.

1. Who is covered by the Zadroga Bill?

If you or a family member worked at the World Trade Center, Pentagon or Shanksville, Pennsylvania crash site on or after 9/11 you may be eligible for these new healthcare benefits if: You are currently being monitored for a 9/11-related disease or condition; You have health issues because you worked at the WTC, Pentagon or Shanksville crash site and you meet certain eligibility requirements; You are the family member of a deceased 9/11 worker and you meet the eligibility requirements.

The numerous qualification prerequisites for healthcare under the Zadroga bill can be bewildering. Make sure you get all the benefits you deserve by speaking with an experienced New York workers' compensation attorney about whether or not you are eligible.

2. What types of injuries are covered by the Zadroga Bill?

The Zadroga bill covers an assortment of respiratory, gastrointestinal, mental health and various other disorders. These include: Lung diseases; Chronic respiratory disorders; Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); Chronic cough syndrome; Asthma; Upper airway hyperreactivity; Chronic rhinosinusitis; Chronic nasopharyngitis; Chronis laryngitis; Gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD) Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Major depressive disorder; Panic or anxiety disorders; Depression; Acute stress disorder; Substance abuse.

There are additional disorders that will be covered, and some, like lower back pain and carpal tunnel syndrome, are covered if the worker received treatment prior to September 11, 2003. With eligibility difficult to determine on your own, consulting with a lawyer versed in assisting 9/11 workers obtain benefits could be extremely helpful.

3. What benefits does the Zadroga bill provide?

Workers meeting eligibility requirements are entitled to all treatment that is medically necessary to address their 9/11 related disorder. Family members of deceased 9/11 workers eligible for coverage can get a health evaluation to determine the appropriate follow-up treatment.

In New York, medical services will be provided by Clinical Centers of Excellence chosen by the bill's Program Administrator. The Program Administrators have also chosen a national network of providers who will provide treatment for those individuals who live outside of New York.

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