Healthcare Worker Injuries

If you’ve been hurt caring for others, we’re here to help you protect your rights.

Supporting Injured Healthcare Workers

You Take Care of Others—Now Let Us Help You

Nurses, CNAs, therapists, and hospital staff face some of the highest rates of workplace injuries in the country. Whether you were injured while lifting a patient, slipped in a fast-moving ER, or developed pain from years of repetitive motion, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. At Eller Frye Law, we help healthcare professionals across South Carolina and North Carolina get the support they need—without adding more stress to an already difficult time.

What You Should Know

Key Workers’ Comp Facts for Healthcare Employees

Back and lifting injuries are extremely common.

Patient handling, transfers, and heavy lifting are a leading cause of workers’ comp claims among nurses and aides.

You don’t have to “tough it out.”

Reporting an injury and filing a claim is your right—and it won’t make you a bad team member.

Injuries may develop gradually.

Repetitive motion injuries like joint strain or carpal tunnel may be just as valid as sudden accidents.

Exposure risks may also be covered.

Workers’ comp can cover certain exposure-related illnesses or infections acquired while doing your job.

Healthcare facilities must carry insurance.

Most employers in the healthcare industry are legally required to maintain workers’ comp coverage.

Workers’ Comp for Healthcare Staff in South Carolina

Protecting Medical Professionals Across the State

In South Carolina, healthcare workers injured on the job are protected under the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Act. Whether you work in a hospital, nursing home, clinic, or private practice, your employer is likely required to carry insurance that covers job-related injuries and illnesses. Claims can include medical bills, wage replacement, and compensation for permanent injuries. You’ll need to report your injury within 90 days and typically see a doctor approved by your employer’s insurance. If your claim is denied or delayed, you have the right to request a hearing and present evidence to support your case.

Workers’ Comp FAQ for Healthcare Workers

Answers to Common Questions After an Injury

  • What injuries are most common for healthcare workers?

    Back injuries from lifting patients, slips and falls, needlestick injuries, and repetitive motion disorders like carpal tunnel are among the most common. These types of injuries are frequently covered under workers’ compensation in South Carolina and North Carolina. It’s important to document how the injury occurred and notify your supervisor right away.

  • Can I get workers’ comp if I got hurt moving a patient?

    Yes. Patient handling injuries are one of the leading reasons healthcare workers file claims. If your injury occurred during a transfer or while providing care, you likely qualify for benefits. As long as the injury happened in the course of your job, you don’t have to prove fault or negligence.

  • What if I didn’t realize how bad the injury was right away?

    Many healthcare injuries develop gradually, and it’s common not to feel the full extent immediately. If you later realize you were injured at work, report it to your employer as soon as possible. In South Carolina, you have 90 days to notify your employer, but the earlier you do, the better it is for your claim.

  • Can I file a claim if I got sick from a patient?

    Workers’ comp may cover illnesses or infections acquired on the job, particularly in high-risk healthcare settings. Coverage depends on whether the illness can be directly linked to your work and documented accordingly. If you believe your condition was caused by workplace exposure, it’s important to seek medical care and legal advice quickly.

  • Will filing a claim affect my job or license?

    Filing a workers’ compensation claim should not affect your professional license or standing at work. It’s a legal right, not a disciplinary issue. Most employers understand that injuries happen and that the system exists to support recovery. Still, having legal guidance can help ensure your claim is handled fairly.