KWC Injured Worker's Group

A of February 2024, Dental coverage is coming for some Canadians!

The federal government has a new Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), which will help some Canadians pay for certain dental costs. There are rules and regulations about who's eligible, what's covered, and when coverage starts.

Who can apply?
To qualify for the CDCP, a person must:
- not have other dental insurance, for example, from a pension, group, employer, or personal plan
- have a family net income of less than $90,000
- be a Canadian resident for tax purposes, and have filed a tax return in the past year

If the person who's applying has a spouse or common-law partner, they must also qualify.

If a person has dental coverage through a provincial social program: such as Healthy Smiles Ontario, Ontario Disability Support Program, or the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Plan; they can still qualify. The 2 plans will be coordinated.
This means that people are not covered for the same service through both plans.

The government will have more details on this by May of 2024.

A person must qualify for the CDCP each year. The government will say how a person can apply at a later date.

When to apply:
When a person can start applying for the CDCP is based on their age and whether they have a Disability Tax Credit certificate.

When they can start applying:
- 87 years or older = December 2023
- 77 to 86 years = January 2024
- 72 to 76 years = February 2024
- 70 to 71 years = March 2024
- 65 to 69 years =May 2024
- Adults 64 years and younger with a valid Disability Tax Credit certificate = June 2024
- Children younger than 18 years = June 2024
- All other Canadians who qualify 2025

Repetitive Strain Injuries(RSI's) Are Increasing!

As the work force ages, this number will only increase in the future.

The WSIB will grant entitlement to RSI claims, if there is sufficient evidence that the mechanics and repetitive nature of the work duties caused the injury or condition. The WSIB will consider and accept the RSI based on a gradual onset, and in the absence of a specific and traumatic event.
Some examples of RSI's include:
: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
• Bursitis
• Tendinitis
• Trigger Finger
• Cumulative Trauma Disorders

Repetitive Strain Injuries are one of the most commonly reported workplace conditions reported by workers. If detected early, RSI's can be prevented if treated and addressed properly. A workplace assessment can often help identify and recommend a course of action to help eliminate RSI's.

Most workers affected by RSI's go through the following three stages of increasing discomfort and disability. It is important that workers and employers identify and recognize the signs and symptoms of the injury and make the necessary changes prior to Stage 3.

Stage 1: Discomfort may persist for weeks or months but is reversible. Most workers experience aching and weakness during work activities, but improve on days away from work. Interference with work tasks is minimal.
Stage 2: Discomfort may persist for months. Symptoms begin more quickly and last longer. Physical signs may be present, and sleep may be disturbed. Work tasks may be difficult to perform.
Stage 3: Discomfort may persist for months or years. Symptoms are present even in rest. Activities of daily living are disrupted, and sleep is disturbed. The worker is unable to perform light duties at work. The likelihood of recovery is poor.

Repetitive Strain Injuries are not always easy to understand or diagnose. For this reason, workers and employers need to focus on identifying and preventing injuries.

If you are not sure how to proceed, please feel free to reach out to us for guidance at 519-219-1666 or via email at [email protected].
We are always here to help!

The best way to prevent occupational noise induced hearing loss is to reduce noise levels.

Here are some noise reduction tips:
• Educate yourself on noise hazards and controls, and use of hearing protection
• Install barriers around noisy stationary equipment
• Segregate noisy operations in a plant from other departments
• Calculate a noise perimeter zone and limit access by workers
• Post signs around noisy equipment and departments were the equipment is used.
• Inspect and maintain equipment regularly
• Invest in the purchase of sound rated quiet machinery
• Establish an audio-gram testing program for workers to identify early those at increased risk of hearing loss.

Should you have any questions or concerns about your hearing, please feel free to contact us at 519-219-1666 or via email at [email protected].

Here is the new table of rates for 2024.

With several changes throughout, please be sure to take note.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at 519-219-1666 or via email at [email protected].

In collaboration with the Injured Workers Outreach Services, the Kirkland Lake Region Injured Workers Group is hosting a seminar on Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome(HAVS).

Should you be interested in learning and would like to attend; please click the link below!

We look forward to answering any questions or concerns you may have.

HAVS Seminar Link for March 5th @ 7pm:
https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_MWNlZWIyN2YtMjRmYS00ODk2LWFjODAtMmNiNDBjNTNjMGJk%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%223a23dc22-e429-4534-8ecb-a7172b327211%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%220bd61158-713f-4846-b0e7-0b4106f9e191%22%7d

Minimum wage increase

As of October 1, 2023, the general minimum wage increased from $15.50 to $16.55.

What does this mean for you?

If you are receiving loss-of-earnings benefits, the minimum wage increase might change the amount you receive.
If you are employed and your wage goes up due to the minimum wage increase, you must report this change to the WSIB. You can let WSIB know by sending us a message through our online services, or by submitting a letter about your wage change online. You can also call WSIB at 1-800-387-0050.
(This only applies to claims that are not yet locked in based on the 72 month lock in).
After you report your new wage, WSIB will let you know whether they will need to adjust your loss-of-earnings benefit. If your loss-of-earnings benefit is changing, WSIB will call you and send a letter to let you know.
If you are not employed, but WSIB have determined you are capable of working in a suitable occupation with a wage below the new minimum wage, WSIB will consider the new minimum wage at your next annual case review and determine whether to adjust your loss-of-earnings benefit at that time. See our policy on Payment and Reviewing LOE Benefits (Prior to Final Review) for more information.
If you are not sure, please reach out to us and we can assist you. Our contact info is 705-567-3638 or email [email protected]. Or message us on our page.

FYI

WSIB change their hours again to 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Friday.

Thank you to the KWC Injured Worker's Group for their $20,000 donation in support of MRI at St. Mary's General Hospital.

https://supportstmarys.ca/kwc-injured-workers-group

"As a charity organization, our office is very fortunate to have the opportunity to contribute to the St. Mary's Hospital Foundation in order to help with the purchasing of their new MRI machine, which is greatly needed in our community...we are very proud to be able to continue to help our community by giving back." - Erica Fournier, Executive Director, KWCIWG

The Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge Injured Worker's Group is glad to present our executive director, Ms. Erica Fournier giving back to the community. As a charity organization, our office is very fortunate to have the opportunity to contribute to the St. Mary's Hospital Foundation in order to help with the purchasing of their new MRI machine. Which is greatly needed in our community! Our office has been open to the public and helping injured workers and their families for over 25 years. & We are very proud to be able to continue to help our community by giving back.

Should you have any questions or require any assistance for a work related injury or illness. Please feel free to contact our office at (519)-219-1666 or via email at [email protected].

Be kind to one another, & stay safe.💚

Did you know that April 28th is the National Day of Mourning for Injured workers?

On April 28th, at 11am we pause for a moment of silence. In order to honour the injured workers who have passed, were injured, or became ill from their occupations.

Please join us in this moment of silence to remember those lost! You can also join us in person at the Waterloo Regional Labour Council Day of Mourning Ceremony, Friday @ 11:00 a.m. at the Worker’s Monument in Willow River Park (Victoria Park), on 32 Dill Street, Kitchener ON.

Form 6
It’s a way for you to tell WSIB what happened to cause the injury or illness. It also gives WSIB information they need to process and make decisions about your claim. This form is different from the one you may have filled out at work for your employer.

Make sure you provide this form to WSIB, as its your opportunity to say what happened.

Form 6 Link: https://www.wsib.ca/.../0006a_workersreportofinjury...

If you need help with this form please give us a call at 519-219-1666 or by email at [email protected].

Did you know that April 28th is the National Day of Mourning for Injured workers?

On April 28th, at 11am we pause for a moment of silence. In order to honour the injured workers who have passed, were injured, or became ill from their occupations.

Please join us in this moment of silence to remember those lost!
You can also join us in person at the Waterloo Regional Labour Council Day of Mourning Ceremony, Friday @ 11:00 a.m. at the Worker’s Monument in Willow River Park (Victoria Park), on 32 Dill Street, Kitchener ON.

These groups across Ontario can help you with your WSIB claim. We offer help from the beginning to the end of your claim. We have the personal experience and one on one experience, to ensure you know your rights and responsibilities. If you are unsure please feel free to reach out to one of us today!

Health Care
WSIB is here to help you recover after a work-related injury or illness. WSIB will pay for all approved health care costs related to your claim, even if you have insurance coverage. The type of benefits you may receive depends on the nature and severity of your injury or illness.

Health Care Benefits Include:
o treatment from your health care professional (e.g., doctor, dentist)
o hospitalization, including emergency care and surgery
o prescription drugs
o prosthetics, or orthotics
o reasonable travel and accommodation expenses
o attendants, or other measures, to help severely- impaired workers live independently.
• Most health care treatments, and related travel need pre-approval from the WSIB.
• WSIB may pay your health care provider directly for services. A health care provider cannot require you to pay for any services because of your work-related injury or illness.
• Even if your claim is not for a psychological condition, WSIB may pay for psychological treatment to support your recovery and return to work.
• If your claim has not been approved, you may need to pay for health care and then ask WSIB to reimburse you. Not all health care is covered and you will only be eligible for reimbursement if your claim is approved.
Health care equipment and supplies
• If your health care provider prescribes health care equipment or supplies and WSIB approves them, WSIB will pay for the equipment. This may include:
o assistive devices (e.g., walkers)
o braces and supports
o other medical supplies (e.g., wound care supplies)
o adjustable bed frames and mattresses.
• You will be provided with choices for approved suppliers of health care equipment.

If you need help for any of your health care reach out to us, call us 519-219-1666 or email us at [email protected].

Mental stress injuries that may be eligible for benefits and services:

People who have work-related mental stress injuries may be entitled to WSIB benefits and services.

To be eligible for benefits and services, your mental stress injury must have been experienced at work, and you must have been diagnosed by a qualified health professional (family doctor, nurse practitioner, psychologist or psychiatrist) as having a mental stress injury listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM–5).

WSIB base their decisions on requirements in the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act and policy relating specifically to the cause of your mental stress injury – whether a one-time traumatic event, multiple traumatic exposures or substantial work-related stressors, such as;
• being subjected to harassment, which is any behaviour that someone knows or can be reasonably expected to know is not welcome, such as unwanted sexual comments or advances, persistent following or invasion of physical space
• being subjected to bullying, a common form of harassment that includes behaviour such as intimidation, malicious rumours, gossip, or innuendo, social isolation or, coercion, humiliation, persistent insults, slurs and/or derogatory names
• working in a job that is highly stressful by nature, such as one that carries responsibility over matters involving life and death, and/or that involves routine work in extremely dangerous circumstance
• witnessing a fatality or a horrific accident
• witnessing or being subjected to an armed robbery
• witnessing or being subjected to a hostage-taking
• being subjected to physical violence
• receiving death threats, or threats of physical violence, such as bomb threats or being confronted with a weapon
• being subjected to harassment that includes physical violence or threats of physical violence, such as the escalation of verbal abuse into traumatic physical abuse
• being put in a life-threatening or potentially life-threatening situation, such as by someone tampering with safety equipment or causing you to do something dangerous
• being exposed to multiple traumatic events in the course of work over time

If you have any questions in regard to mental stress, give us a call at 519-219-1666.

Repetitive Strain Injuries; Recognizing the difficulties of repetitive strain and how to treat it.

The symptoms usually start gradually and can include:
• pain, which may feel like burning, aching or throbbing
• stiffness and weakness
• tingling, pins-and-needles or numbness
• muscle cramps
• swelling

Causes of repetitive strain injury (RSI)
Repetitive strain injury (RSI) is caused by repeated use of a body part, such as your shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist or hand.
For example, you can get RSI if:
* you do repetitive activities like hairdressing, decorating, typing or working on an assembly line
* you play sports like golf or tennis that involve lots of repetitive movements
* you have poor posture when sitting or standing at work
* you use hand-held power tools regularly
* Repetitive or strenuous work does not always cause RSI. Many people do the same job for years without having a problem.

Pain in a part of the body like the arm is often caused by a combination of things, including aging.
Things you can do to help ease repetitive strain injury (RSI)
There are a number of things you can do to help ease the symptoms of repetitive strain injury (RSI):
* keep active – you may need to limit the amount of activity you do to start with before gradually increasing it
* take a anti-inflammatory painkillers like ibuprofen – you can get tablets or gels that you rub on the painful area
* try using a hot or cold pack (or a bag of frozen peas) wrapped in a towel on the affected area for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours
* speak to your employer about ways they can help you continue working, like changing the way you work or reducing your hours

Please feel free to give us a call or email us if you have any questions.
You can reach us at 519-219-1666 or by email at [email protected].

https://fairpractices.on.ca

If you have escalated through the WSIB management and still no results. Or you feel that a wrong decision was made. Contact the Fair Practice Commission. As they will try to help you to the best of their ability.

If you have questions, please let us know and we can guide you in the next steps. Please feel free to contact us at 519-219-1666 or email at [email protected].

These groups across Ontario can help you with your WSIB claim. We offer help from the beginning to the end and have the personal experience and one on one experience to ensure you know your rights and responsibilities. If you are unsure reach out to one of us today!

Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome...
This policy applies to all claims base on these standards with a date of accident on or after January 2, 1990.

WSIB Table of Rates for 2023!!

Here's to a bright New Year and a fond farewell to the old; here's to the things that are yet to come, and to the memories that we hold. Wishing you a happy, healthy, & prosperous New Year from all of us here at KWC Injured Workers Group.🎉🎊

’Twas the Night Before Christmas

…And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As I drew in my head, and was turning around,
Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.

He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot,
And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot.
A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back,
And he looked like a peddler, just opening his pack.

His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!
His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,
And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow…

Wishing you all a warm and festive holiday season, spent with those you love! Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!🎄🎅🏻🎁

Our office will be closed to the public for the holiday’s & will re-open January 3rd, 2023.

Wishing you all have a safe and joyous holiday spent with family and friends!🎄🎅🏻🎁

From us here at K-W-C Injured Workers Group

Courtesy Post:

If you or someone you know has been living in poverty after receiving their Loss of Retirement Income please reach out to this group to assist their study. See the criteria below.

6 Month Time Limit
A WSIB claim must be filed within six months of an injury or, in the case of an occupational disease, within six months of the worker learning of the disease.

If the worker does not file the claim for benefits, or consent to the disclosure of functional abilities information within the six-month deadline, the WSIB does not provide benefits unless, in its opinion, it is just to do so.

How workers can meet the requirements for claiming benefits, and to identify when the WSIB may extend the time to claim and consent.

How workers claim:
Workers meet their requirement to claim for benefits by signing Worker's report of injury/disease (Form 6) or a Worker's Continuity Report (Form REO6). (Any reference to Form 6 includes the relevant occupational disease forms.)
The WSIB may extend the six-month deadline, or waive the requirement altogether if in the WSIB's opinion it is just to do so.

Exceptional circumstances:
If a worker fails to file a claim by the respective deadline, the WSIB allows the claim to be filed at a later date if the worker can show that exceptional circumstances existed at the deadline.

Exceptional circumstances can include:
• compelling personal reasons, such as serious health problems or injuries (experienced by the party or the party's immediate family), or the party leaving the province/country due to the ill health or death of a family member
• the worker's ability to understand the time limit requirements and consequences of not meeting them (e.g., was the worker made aware at the workplace of the requirement to claim and consent; were language difficulties a factor?), and
• whether the worker reported the accident to the employer, health care professional, or co-workers.

If you are unsure or need more information please give us a call at 519-219-1666 or email [email protected]

Lest We Forget!!

Time Limits:
Each decision letter you receive from the WSIB, has a time limit to be met in order to start an appeal. That time limit is most often written at the end of the decision letter. The time given is typically 6 months to object this decision, although sometimes it can be only 30 days. To meet the time limit, you must complete and submit an Intent to Object Form.

You are able to call the WSIB to get this form, or it is also available on their website. You will then receive a copy of your claim file, at which point you have as much time as you need to get ready to
go ahead with the appeal.

Should you have any questions or concerns, about a decision letter you have received and how to go about appealing the decision. Please feel free to give us a call at 519-219-1666 or reach us via email at [email protected]

Today we pause to remember those who have fallen for our freedom, and those that continue to serve our country.
Lest we forget!

Catastrophic Injury Care Is More than Clinical!Workers’ Compensation Must Understand the Value of Compassion.

Although catastrophic injuries make up a small percentage of overall workers’ comp claims, for these injured workers, recovery requires collaborative care.
A catastrophic injury can take place in any workplace. Just imagine an employee slipping on a wet floor or tripping over a cord and hitting their head or breaking their hip, and it’s easy to see why all businesses need to be prepared for worst-case injury scenarios.

While catastrophic injuries are a small percentage of overall claims, they demand the attention of employers, medical professionals, insurers, case managers, workers’ compensation representatives and others to ensure that an injured employee’s case is managed with care and compassion.

Should you have any questions or concerns about an injury you or a loved one has faced at work, please feel to give us a call. You can reach us at 519-219-1666 or by email at [email protected].

Health Care Benefits, & What You Need to Know!

Please feel free to give us a call at 519-219-1666, should you have any questions. You can also reach us via email at [email protected].