PTSD now part of Workers Compensation Board's benefits

Policy changes have been made by the Workers Compensation Board of P.E.I. regarding compensation benefits for psychological and psychiatric conditions.

The new changes recognize there are increased risks in occupations such as emergency first responders.

The coverage has been expanded to include psychological conditions, like post traumatic stress disorder, which could result from the cumulative effect of working in an occupation where there is increased exposure to traumatic events.

The Workers Compensation Board said in a news release the changes come after research and monitoring legislative and policy changes in other provinces.

• PTSD legislation inconsistent for first responders across Canada

Employees may now be entitled to compensation benefits for a psychological or psychiatric condition if it is determined that there has been a significant or severe reaction to anunexpected and emotionally shocking event, or the cumulative effect of a series of events.

• MORE P.E.I. NEWS |Mystery tribute touches mother of dead son
• MORE P.E.I. NEWS |UPEI tuition going up 3%