Cost of workers' compensation claims among firefighters in Ohio, 2001-2020.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Firefighters face significant occupational hazards resulting in fatal and nonfatal injuries as well as illnesses. This study characterizes the costs of workers' compensation (WC) claims among Ohio firefighters from 2001 to 2020, providing insights for prevention and resource allocation strategies.

Methods

WC claims data for public and private fire departments were analyzed. Claims were categorized by type (medical-only vs. lost-time), demographics, tasks that led to the injury/illness, injury/illness events, and diagnoses. Costs included medical care, indemnity payments, and reserves for future anticipated costs, evaluated as of Q2 2022.

Results

Among 37,306 claims, costs totaled $542 million. Lost-time claims accounted for $497 million, while medical-only

SUBMITTER: Marsh SM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12818356 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature