After an injury on the job, it can be difficult to get around. Many workers’ compensation claimants struggle with limited mobility, limited income and limited time – all of which can make it harder to get to medical appointments, family obligations and other meetings.
Fortunately, the New York State Workers’ Compensation Board has heard these concerns. The WCB recently launched a new tool to make it easier for injured workers to attend their hearings remotely.
The Board recently began to offer virtual hearings, which allow workers to attend proceedings and tell their stories without leaving home. To make the process even easier, they have created an app called WCB VHC so workers can video-conference into their hearings with the tap of a screen.
How does it work?
The VHC app uses a simple interface to guide users through the virtual hearing process:
- Users are directed to sign on. The app can save login information, allowing attorneys and other frequent attendees to sign in quickly and easily.
- Users wait in a virtual waiting room for the hearing to begin. During this time, users can make calls or use other apps. The VHC app will send users a notification when their hearing is starting.
- Once the Judge begins the hearing, users are transferred to the video hearing, where they can proceed as if they were attending in person.
Virtual hearings are completely optional, and those who prefer to attend in-person hearings can still do so. However, we are thrilled that hearings are becoming more accessible, particularly for our clients who may find attending hearings difficult.
Visit the Workers’ Compensation Board online to learn more about virtual hearings, or download the app directly from the iOS app store.