Black Lung Benefits Program FAQ

Black lung disease is a severe work-related injury. It primarily affects coal mine operators, construction workers, and others exposed to coal dust. The condition might seem overwhelming, especially when you are facing medical expenses. Thankfully, the federal government has established the Black Lung Benefits Act (BLBA) to offer help.

The BLBA is a vital program for coal mine workers and others at risk of black lung disease. This work-related injury can cause serious health problems. As a result, the federal government set up a way to help. This article will explore what the BLBA covers, how it works, and how you can get help if you need it. The BLBA could be a crucial part of your recovery and well-being.

What is black lung disease?

Black lung disease is also known as coal workers' pneumoconiosis. It is a chronic lung condition caused by inhaling coal dust. This disease primarily affects coal mine operators. It also affects construction workers, longshore, and harbor workers. It can affect anyone who is repeatedly exposed to coal particles.

The tiny particles build up in the lungs over time. This leads to inflammation, scarring, and eventual impairment of lung function, causing severe breathing difficulties and total disability, which will have a dramatic impact on an individual's quality of life.

The consequences of black lung disease are often life-long. It can lead to significant medical expenses for treatment and care. The suffering and financial burden caused by this condition is why the federal government introduced the BLBA. This program aims to alleviate some of the financial stresses and support those suffering from this devastating disease, ensuring that they have access to the necessary medical care and support they need.

What is the BLBA?

The BLBA is a type of federal workers' compensation benefits program. This Act was enacted in 1972. This program provides monthly payments and medical benefits to coal miners disabled by black lung disease arising from employment in or around the nation's coal mines. The Act also provides monthly benefits to a miner's dependent survivors if pneumoconiosis caused or hastened the miner's death.

What is covered under the BLBA?

The BLBA covers medical expenses for those who suffer from black lung disease. The federal government uses a trust fund to self-insure these workers. This means that the government works with an insurance carrier or insurance company to provide workers' compensation insurance.

Under this program, injured workers can get help with their medical care. The coverage includes treatments for total disability and impairment caused by black lung disease. The help doesn't just stop at medical coverage. If you're eligible, you may also receive benefits similar to social security.

The BLBA covers the cost of medical treatment services and associated travel for the treatment of black lung conditions. Payment for medical treatment services is subject to a maximum allowable fee, but the patient is not required to pay a copayment. Payment for travel is limited to reasonable costs.

Do I have to have a physical exam?

Yes. A physical exam is usually required. Medical professionals known as providers will check you to confirm that you have black lung disease. This examination is essential for your workers' compensation claim. It will make sure that your medical expenses are covered under the BLBA.

After you submit your benefits application, you will be required to complete a pulmonary evaluation. This is a medical examination to determine whether you are totally disabled by black lung disease.

The examination consists of:

• A physical examination by a physician
• A chest x-ray
• A pulmonary function test and
• An arterial blood gas test

The Department of Labor (DOL) is required by law to offer you a free examination to prove if you are entitled to black lung benefits. For more information, view the DOL's Guide for Filing for Black Lung Benefits.

What services are typically covered under the BLBA?

The BLBA covers many services for those who need them. Present and former coal miners, other workers who have been exposed to coal dust, and their surviving dependents may apply for medical and monthly financial benefits under the Act.

The program provides for diagnostic testing to verify the presence of black lung disease and the degree of associated disability. Benefits may include a monthly stipend, as well as such medical services as prescription drug coverage, hospitalization coverage, durable medical equipment, and outpatient therapy.

The following is a list of services that would likely be covered for treatment of a black lung-related condition:

• Doctor's office calls, hospital visits, and consultations
• Inpatient and outpatient hospital charges, including emergency room visits for acute black lung-related conditions, diagnostic laboratory testing, and chest X-rays
• Federal Black Lung Program approved prescription drugs, both brand name and generic
• Ambulance services limited to transportation to the hospital for emergency acute black lung-related care
• Travel to the doctor, hospital, clinic, or other medical facility for round trips of 200 miles or less

Longshore or harbor workers may also be eligible for the same benefits. This can be a huge relief, especially for those facing total disability and needing ongoing care.

What are the costs that the BLBA doesn't cover?

While the BLBA helps with many costs, it doesn't cover everything. Some medical expenses might not be included in the coverage. If your work-related injury does not align with mine employment or other criteria under state law, you might not qualify. It's essential to understand what is and isn't covered to avoid surprises.

The following are among the costs not covered under the Federal Black Lung Program:

• Treatment of medical problems not related to black lung condition, such as arthritis, diabetes, and most heart conditions
• Medical treatment for the patient's spouse or other family members
• Dental or eye care and X-rays other than chest X-rays
• Nurse's aid (non-skilled nursing care) services in the home
• Home health aides
• Medicine that you can buy without a doctor's prescription
• Medicine for problems other than your black lung condition
• Personal services in the hospital, such as TV or telephones
• Rental or purchase of an Intermittent Positive Pressure Breathing (IPPB) machine for home use
• Travel to and from your drugstore
• Residence costs (room and board) for nursing homes or skilled nursing facilities
• Home medical equipment

Who handles the claims process?

The claims process is handled by the federal employees working with the insurance company. The Division of Coal Mine Workers' Compensation (DCMWC), within the U.S. Department of Labor Employment Standards Administration's Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP), adjudicates and processes claims filed by coal miners and their survivors under the BLBA. These claimants make sure everything is in order. They work with coal mine operators and other employers to ensure that the workers' comp provided is both fair and prompt.

Speak With an Attorney About Your Black Lung Benefits Claim

If you're dealing with black lung disease, it might be wise to speak with an attorney. A lawyer who understands the BLBA can help you navigate the complex system. They can ensure you get the benefits you need, whether it's medical coverage, social security, or something else.

Even the simplest injury can lead to considerable obstacles, such as proving that the injury was, in fact, work-related or covered by insurance. In any event, your employer is required by law to provide fair compensation in the event of a workplace injury or illness.

Speak with a workers' compensation attorney about your legal claim today.