If you’re a first responder, you know that not only are there job-related hazards that affect your physical health, but there are also mental health effects.
First responders are at high risk for work-related mental health conditions because of regular exposure to traumatic events and high-stress situations. Repeated exposure to accidents, violence and death can trigger mental health issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD can include intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, negative changes in mood and thinking, and arousal and reactivity symptoms like difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, and self-destructive behavior.
A first responder can be diagnosed with PTSD by a qualified mental health professional after a thorough assessment that includes both a physical exam and mental health evaluation. To be diagnosed with PTSD, the person must have experienced symptoms for at least one month, and they must be causing significant distress or impairment in their daily life. Some states’ laws presume that PTSD in first responders is a direct result of their work, which makes it easier for them to access workers’ compensation benefits.
There is treatment for PTSD; cognitive behavioral therapy (CBD) and psychotherapy are both accepted treatments for the condition, along with medication in some cases.
An Arizona House bill would expand PTSD coverage for first responders, if it passes the Senate and is signed into law by the governor.
Arizona House Bill 2492 (HB 2492) is working its way through the state legislature. It aims to broaden workers’ compensation coverage for PTSD among first responders. One aspect of the bill is that it includes 911 dispatchers among covered employees, and it expands qualifying events that trigger the presumption of PTSD.
The bill has passed the Arizona House of Representatives and is being considered in the Senate. Both the Senate Health and Human Services and Appropriations committees have recommended its passage. At the time of this writing, the bill is pending in the Senate Rules Committee. If it passes, it will head for a full Senate vote.
What will be the effects of HB 2492, if it passes?
1. Expanded coverage for 911 dispatchers
This is a key component of the bill. The intent is to recognize the intense and traumatic experiences faced by 911 dispatchers. As the first point of contact during an emergency, they experience frequent trauma and disturbance. If the bill passes, it would provide them to workers’ compensation benefits for PTSD because of the psychological effects of their work.
2. Clarification and broadened coverage
The bill clarifies and broadens existing PTSD presumption coverage to specifically include EMTs, paramedics, firefighters, and public safety telecommunicators.
3. Expands qualifying events
The bill acknowledges a wider range of traumatic experiences that can lead to work-related PTSD for a first responder, including witnessing the death of a coworker (or other first responder) or being involved in an incident that involves the use of deadly force.
4. Increase in workers’ compensation claims
Legislators will consider that if signed into law, this bill will likely result in a greater number of workers’ compensation claims related to PTSD. They will surely consider the financial implications for employers and the Arizona workers’ compensation system.
5. Improved mental health support for first responders
The resulting law could encourage employers to prioritize mental health support and supportive environment for affected workers. It would highlight the growing awareness of PTSD as a legitimate occupational hazard for first responders.
What’s next for a first responder with PTSD?
The bill is still pending passage into law. However, if it does pass the Senate vote and is signed into law by Governor Hobbs, you might have more options for PTSD workers’ compensation coverage as a first responder.
As always, it’s best to consult a qualified Arizona workers’ compensation lawyer to review your legal options and seek guidance for your specific case.