Responsibility and Payment for Ambulance Services in Workplace Injuries
Introduction
If someone falls and sustains an injury at a place of business and employees at the company call for an ambulance, the responsibility for the charges lies with the company. This is because employees were working in a location that is considered part of the company. Regardless of whether the injured party gets into the ambulance or not, the company is still responsible for the charges associated with the call to the ambulance.
Payment Obligations
The responsibility to cover the charges for the ambulance arises from the fact that it is a workplace incident. Here are the key points to understand:
If the Injured Party Agrees to the Ambulance
If the injured party agrees to be taken to the emergency room by ambulance, the company is still responsible for the charges. This is because it was the call of the employees and the incident occurred on company property. The ambulance and its services are considered part of the company's responsibility in this case.
If the Injured Party Refuses the Ambulance
Even if the injured party refuses the ambulance, the company is still responsible for the charges. The decision to refuse medical attention can be dangerous, especially if the injuries are not visible or seem minor. Therefore, the company remains financially responsible.
Limited Fees
It's important to note that if you are in a jurisdiction where there are no fees for riding in an ambulance, the injured party will not be billed directly. Typically, the company would bear the cost.
Legal and Workplace Considerations
While it's important for the injured party to get medical treatment, there are also legal and workplace implications to consider.
Worker Compensation
In North America, worker compensation laws can vary significantly by province or state. Most workers are covered, and if an employee refuses to seek medical attention, it could lead to termination. Additionally, failing to seek medical treatment could result in the employer cutting off workplace access and potentially making the injured party responsible for the ambulance charges in the future.
Company Policies
Employers have a responsibility to ensure that workers receive appropriate medical attention. When an ambulance is called, it's in the best interest of the employee to enter the ambulance. This action serves multiple purposes: it ensures that the employee receives necessary medical care, it helps to document the injury for potential worker compensation claims, and it ensures that the company meets its legal obligations.
Documentation and Patient Refusal Forms
In cases where the decision to refuse the ambulance is made, the company will likely require a patient refusal form. This document explains the rationale for refusing the ambulance and acknowledges that the company is still responsible for the charges.
From a legal standpoint, it is advisable for workers to consult with a lawyer for specific advice, but generally, it is in everyone's best interest for the injured party to accept medical treatment as soon as possible.
Conclusion
In the event of a workplace injury, the timely and appropriate deployment of medical resources, such as an ambulance, is crucial. The company bears the financial responsibility for such services, and it is in the best interest of the injured party to cooperate with the medical personnel and ensure they receive the care they need.