All employees should be aware of the proper procedures to follow when a work-related injury occurs. All injury reports, telephone notifications, and questions regarding claims handling should be directed to Susan McGuinness, at ext. 1004.

WHAT IS WORKERS’ COMPENSATION?
Workers’ compensation is a statutory benefit in the State of New Jersey. If you are injured in the course of your employment, workers’ compensation insurance covers you for medical and lost wages, and you do not need legal assistance to obtain these benefits.

WHO IS COVERED?
All employees, whether full or part-time, are covered under workers’ compensation. The insurance only covers those employees who have sustained an injury while working.

HOW DO I REPORT A WORK-RELATED INJURY?
All work-related injuries must be reported to a District Nurse, Principal, Supervisor and Susan McGuinness IMMEDIATELY, and in no instance greater than 24 hours, as required by Board of Education Policy Number 8440. In accordance with this policy, disciplinary action may be taken for failure to report work-related injuries in the established time frame. Be advised that acceptance of claims for workers’ compensation may be delayed or denied if not reported within 24 hours. Employees must complete an "Employee Injury - Treatment Record Form" for all injuries. These forms can also be obtained from the School Nurse.

WHAT IF AN INJURY OCCURS AFTER NORMAL WORKING HOURS (“OFF-HOURS”)?
The employee must complete the “Employee Injury – Treatment Record” form that can be found in a hanging folder in the Head Custodian’s office area. Upon completion, these forms should be FAXED TO 609-894-0586, OR Scanned immediately to smcguinness@pemb.org at Brotherhood.

WHERE DO I GO IF MEDICAL TREATMENT IS REQUIRED?
The first action is to go to the School Nurse if available. Medical treatment for work related injuries beyond first aid must be provided by District Authorized Physicians, or in emergency cases only, by the emergency department of the nearest public hospital. The district will not be responsible for payment of medical bills from unauthorized physicians. If you are going for medical treatment, your supervisor, school nurse, or Susan McGuinness must first obtain a case number, before you go to the treating physician. If you are going to the emergency department for treatment, a case number is not required. All injuries requiring medical treatment must be reported to 609-893-8141 ext. 1014 immediately following the doctor’s appointment stating the physician’s diagnosis and return to work status.

WHAT IF I NEED A PRESCRIPTION FILLED?
If you need a prescription filled, please contact Susan McGuinness, at 609-893-8141, ext. 1004. If you pay out of pocket expenses, send the receipts along with a copy of the prescription to Susan McGuinness, Claims Coordinator.