Based on interviews, focus groups, and anecdotal reports from screening participants, we anticipate that the NTS workers with probable work-related illnesses will have a difficult experience in utilizing the Nevada workers' compensation system. Based on data we have previously reviewed, the overwhelming majority of pursued claims have been denied. Many more individuals with potential claims have chosen not to file. We believe that less obvious barriers to successful claims may be identified such as the lack of trained occupational medicine providers. In addition, since most of the screened workers have health insurance, we believe that financial barriers should not significantly affect follow-up medical care. However, we expect that other reported barriers to follow-up will range from not having a primary care physician to not believing that the condition warrants follow-up.
Learning Objectives: Learning objectives: At the conclusion of this presentation, the participant will be able to: 1) Describe the primary exposure hazards at this large USDOE nuclear weapons production facility 2) Evaluate the initial findings of medical screening for noise induced hearing loss, beryllium sensitization and disease, and asbestos related 3) Discuss the implications from the first two and one half years of the screening program for former workers in DOE vv. workers’ compensation and ongoing surveillance
Keywords: Occupational Disease, Occupational Health