{"id":353562,"date":"2016-04-04T10:47:02","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:47:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/injury\/workers-compensation\/black-lung-benefits-program.html"},"modified":"2023-12-11T07:38:30","modified_gmt":"2023-12-11T12:38:30","slug":"black-lung-benefits-program","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/black-lung-benefits-program.html","title":{"rendered":"Black Lung Benefits Program FAQ"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">Black Lung Benefits Program FAQ<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/jade-yeban-j-d\/\">Jade Yeban, Esq.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/katrina-wilson-esq\/\">Katrina Wilson, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            December 11, 2023\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n    <div class=\"fl-callout-text article-blockquote\">\n        <div id=\"copilot-message-r2i\" class=\"fai-CopilotMessage__content r1izxv8h ___7qar2c0 fcthzvy\" dir=\"auto\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">\n<div class=\"___1vve6yh f22iagw f1vx9l62 f122n59 f3bhgqh f1mnxvew fly5x3f\">\n<div class=\"___j4vmuw0 f22iagw f1vx9l62 f1869bpl fly5x3f fbc6vix\">\n<div data-testid=\"loading-message\" data-fui-focus-visible=\"\">\n<div>\n<div id=\"chatMessageResponser2g\" class=\"___1yop6mf f336tjw f9ijwd5 fz7g6wx fod5ikn f1s184ao\" aria-live=\"assertive\" data-testid=\"lastChatMessage\">\n<div class=\"___1j4t0a1 f1lmfglv f1abmfm4\" aria-hidden=\"false\" data-testid=\"markdown-reply\" data-message-type=\"Chat\">\n<div class=\"___stpibi0 f22iagw f1vx9l62 fk15e71 f1k953kz f137keqj f1rncccw f1stllg3 f1w4kmmc f1tric3v f10dk5ic fx8cdsv f16nlwsl f1eookvz fhjrts3 fqugt2f f10km5jb f18d18k8 f1v1vhmp f1hdmul3 f198vjnp f2dshw1 fjpjndq fnmj2pj ffrrb40 f1mon110 fhajzam fimndk6 fxv4dng fb1rn9k f59wlhv f1xmfh30 f18yf5o5 fmr6chf fw8qy2q ff161sd f1qr7t77 f1yyogn1 foogchg fp5872b f1tpb8gf f1hdgrc8 f1vatr43 frkxccd f9pdzkb f158oiaz ft5kggy f5l4ui7 f13j03li f18xdoka f8off4e f1go6zfc f128n2ra f1jpxw2j f1lwd9n0 fy0b8hm f1g2633v fx4kvgi fkvolse f1gxrt3a f1os76ua f1js9cnw f1g87ej0 freluf8 f1yggaq6 f2i3chp f1151osp florpoh f35kzfz ftp9m57 f1e288vi fz62hnz fixvuys f1nmofwh fc1c6mv f18a2er7 fhvkrdl fhxnn68 f1oce4bo fvhlfan f7tc0t0 f1ngf1n2 ffrzq6x f1yjiq2m f1aqdgql f1huvaf f10ij78l f1k94sa4 fkmfumq f1jvzkyl f1eu24ob f1xbfc1f fmf0lwf f107dsy8 f3w566c f4648sl f13zpkng f7unjfp f8p1rz fzu6h1w f1i1bi6h f1smo7hi f1sk1xod f1kgogdq f1gjktkp ft608jz f19dd9cz fg3xr24 fhd155k f1b8gl2e fg4b9ou flb4lo fdicbfk fgwcyh1 f1jbds0d f1fb9uea f1stuka4 fcrtu6g fwqh0xn f11w66yg f6e0e65 f1vvgu0 f1607507 f1m9bycv f1ntoah8 f1b694rt faql4r2 fpjuhzh fmavl6h\">\n<p>The Black Lung Benefits Act (BLBA) is a federal program that provides monthly payments and medical coverage to coal miners and other workers disabled by black lung disease. It covers diagnostic testing, treatment, and travel expenses related to the condition. The Division of Coal Mine Workers\u2019 Compensation within the U.S. Department of Labor Claims processes claims.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><\/div>\n<div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"fai-CopilotMessage__footnote r1bn3aft ___7qar2c0 fcthzvy\">\n<div class=\"___648pct0 f1lmfglv f527xm8 f1hdris8\" dir=\"ltr\" data-testid=\"foot-note-div\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"fai-CopilotMessage__actions rmlvq19 ___7qar2c0 fcthzvy\" role=\"toolbar\" data-tabster=\"{&quot;mover&quot;:{&quot;cyclic&quot;:false,&quot;direction&quot;:2,&quot;memorizeCurrent&quot;:true}}\"><\/div>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Black lung disease is a severe work-related injury. It primarily affects coal mine operators, construction workers, and others exposed to coal dust. The condition might seem overwhelming, especially when you are facing medical expenses. Thankfully, the federal government established the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dol.gov\/agencies\/owcp\/dcmwc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Black Lung Benefits Act<\/a> (BLBA) to offer help.<\/p>\n<p>The BLBA is a vital program for coal mine workers and others at risk of black lung disease. This work-related injury can cause serious health problems. As a result, the federal government set up a way to help.<\/p>\n<p>This article answers common questions regarding:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>What the BLBA covers and how it works<\/li>\n<li>Filing a claim<\/li>\n<li>Getting legal help with your claim<\/li>\n<li>And more<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The BLBA could be a crucial part of your recovery and well-being. If you believe you qualify for benefits or are unsure how to begin the claims process, speaking with a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/workers-compensation-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">workers&#8217; comp attorney<\/a> can make all the difference. Legal guidance can help you navigate the system and ensure you receive the support you deserve.<\/p>\n<h2>What is black lung disease?<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.webmd.com\/lung\/black-lung-disease\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Black lung disease<\/a> is also known as coal workers&#8217; pneumoconiosis. It is a chronic lung condition caused by inhaling coal dust. This disease primarily affects coal mine operators. It also affects construction workers, longshore, and harbor workers. It can affect anyone who is repeatedly exposed to coal particles.<\/p>\n<p>The tiny particles build up in the lungs over time. This leads to inflammation, scarring, and eventual impairment of lung function, causing\u00a0severe breathing difficulties and total disability, which will have a\u00a0dramatic impact on an individual&#8217;s quality of life.<\/p>\n<p>The consequences of black lung disease are often lifelong. It can lead to significant medical expenses for treatment and care. The federal government introduced the BLBA to ease the financial burden caused by this condition. This program aims to alleviate some of the financial stresses and support those suffering from this devastating disease, ensuring that they have access to the necessary medical care and support they need.<\/p>\n<h2>What is the BLBA?<\/h2>\n<p>The BLBA is a type of federal\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/workers-compensation-resources.html\">workers&#8217; compensation<\/a>\u00a0benefits program. This Act was enacted in 1972. This program provides monthly payments and medical benefits to coal miners\u00a0disabled by\u00a0black lung disease\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/workers-compensation\/what-types-of-injuries-are-compensable-under-workers-compensation.html\">arising from employment in or around the nation&#8217;s coal mines<\/a>. The Act also provides monthly benefits to a miner&#8217;s dependent survivors if pneumoconiosis caused or hastened the miner&#8217;s death.<\/p>\n<h2>What is covered under the\u00a0BLBA?<\/h2>\n<p>The BLBA covers medical expenses for those who suffer from black lung disease. The federal government uses a trust fund to self-insure these workers. This means that the government works with an insurance carrier or insurance company to provide workers&#8217; compensation insurance.<\/p>\n<p>Under this program, injured workers can get help with their medical care. The coverage includes treatments for total disability and impairment caused by black lung disease. The help doesn&#8217;t just stop at medical coverage. If you&#8217;re eligible, you may also receive benefits similar to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/socialsecurity\/basics.html\">Social Security<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The BLBA covers the cost of medical treatment services and associated travel for the treatment of black lung conditions. Payment for medical treatment services is subject to a maximum allowable fee, but the patient is not required to pay a copayment. Payment for travel is limited to reasonable costs.<\/p>\n<h2>Do I have to have a physical exam?<\/h2>\n<p>Yes. A physical exam is usually required. Medical professionals known as providers will check you to confirm that you have black lung disease. This examination is essential for your workers&#8217; compensation claim. It will make sure that your medical expenses are covered under the BLBA.<\/p>\n<p>After you submit your benefits application, you will be required to complete a\u00a0pulmonary evaluation.\u00a0This is a medical examination to determine whether you are totally disabled by black lung disease.<\/p>\n<p>The examination consists of:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A physical examination by a physician<\/li>\n<li>A chest x-ray<\/li>\n<li>A pulmonary function test and<\/li>\n<li>An arterial blood gas test<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The Department of Labor (DOL) is required by law to offer you a free examination to prove\u00a0if you are entitled\u00a0to black lung benefits. For more information, view the DOL&#8217;s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.dol.gov\/agencies\/owcp\/dcmwc\/filing_guide_miner\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Guide for Filing for Black Lung Benefits<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>What services are typically covered under the BLBA?<\/h2>\n<p>The BLBA covers many services for those who need them. Present and former coal miners, other workers who have been exposed to coal dust, and their surviving dependents may apply for medical and monthly financial benefits under the Act.<\/p>\n<p>The program provides for diagnostic testing to verify the presence of black lung disease and the degree of associated disability. Benefits may include a monthly stipend, as well as such medical services as prescription drug coverage, hospitalization coverage, durable medical equipment, and outpatient therapy.<\/p>\n<p>The following is a list of services that would likely be covered for treatment of a black lung-related condition:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Doctor&#8217;s office calls, hospital visits, and consultations<\/li>\n<li>Inpatient and outpatient hospital charges, including emergency room visits for acute black lung-related conditions, diagnostic laboratory testing, and chest X-rays<\/li>\n<li>Federal Black Lung Program approved prescription drugs, both brand name and generic<\/li>\n<li>Ambulance services limited to transportation to the hospital for emergency acute black lung-related care<\/li>\n<li>Travel to the doctor, hospital, clinic, or other medical facility for round trips of 200 miles or less<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Longshore or harbor workers may also be eligible for the same benefits. This can be a huge relief, especially for those facing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/socialsecurity\/disability\/social-security-disability-explained.html\">total disability<\/a> and needing ongoing care.<\/p>\n<h2>What are the costs that the BLBA doesn&#8217;t cover?<\/h2>\n<p>While the BLBA helps with many costs, it doesn&#8217;t cover everything. Some medical expenses might not be included in the coverage. If your work-related injury does not align with mine employment or other criteria under state law, you might not qualify. It&#8217;s essential to understand what is and isn&#8217;t covered to avoid surprises.<\/p>\n<p>The following are among the costs not covered under the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dol.gov\/agencies\/owcp\/dcmwc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Federal Black Lung Program<\/a>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Treatment of medical problems not related to black lung condition, such as arthritis, diabetes, and most heart conditions<\/li>\n<li>Medical treatment for the patient&#8217;s spouse or other family members<\/li>\n<li>Dental or eye care and X-rays other than chest X-rays<\/li>\n<li>Nurse&#8217;s aid (non-skilled nursing care) services in the home<\/li>\n<li>Home health aides<\/li>\n<li>Medicine that you can buy without a doctor&#8217;s prescription<\/li>\n<li>Medicine for problems other than your black lung condition<\/li>\n<li>Personal services in the hospital, such as TV or telephones<\/li>\n<li>Rental or purchase of an Intermittent Positive Pressure Breathing (IPPB) machine for home use<\/li>\n<li>Travel to and from your drugstore<\/li>\n<li>Residence costs (room and board) for nursing homes or skilled nursing facilities<\/li>\n<li>Home medical equipment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Who handles the claims process?<\/h2>\n<p>The claims process is handled by the federal employees working with the insurance company. The\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.dol.gov\/owcp\/dcmwc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Division of Coal Mine Workers&#8217; Compensation<\/a>\u00a0(DCMWC), within the U.S. Department of Labor Employment Standards Administration&#8217;s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.dol.gov\/agencies\/owcp#:~:text=The%20Office%20of%20Workers%27%20Compensation%20Programs%20administers%20four%20major%20disability,related%20injury%20or%20occupational%20disease.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Office of Workers&#8217; Compensation Programs<\/a>\u00a0(OWCP), adjudicates and processes claims filed by coal miners and their survivors under the BLBA. These claimants make sure everything is in order. They work\u00a0with coal mine operators and other employers to ensure that the workers&#8217; comp\u00a0provided is both\u00a0fair\u00a0and prompt.<\/p>\n<h2>An Attorney Can Hep With Your Black Lung Benefits Claim<\/h2>\n<p>If you&#8217;re dealing with black lung disease, an attorney can be your strongest advocate for your rights. A lawyer who understands the BLBA can help you navigate the complex system. They can ensure you get the benefits you need, whether it&#8217;s medical coverage, social security, or something else.<\/p>\n<p>Even the simplest injury can lead to considerable obstacles, such as proving that the injury was, in fact, work-related or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/employment\/wages-and-benefits\/health-insurance-and-benefits-your-rights.html\">covered by insurance<\/a>. In any event, your employer is required by law to provide fair compensation in the event of a workplace injury or illness.<\/p>\n<p>FindLaw&#8217;s directory of <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/workers-compensation-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">workers&#8217; compensation attorneys<\/a> can connect you with an attorney in your area to start your legal claim. Select your state or city to review contact and ratings information for local experts. Your search results will also link you to additional details about the attorneys\u2019 experience with black lung claims.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-up\" 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<fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n               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