Black Lung Program Doctor in Buffalo, NY

Due to their work environment, coal miners face several unique occupational hazards, including the inhalation of coal dust. Over time, coal dust accumulates in the lungs, causing inflammation and scarring. These changes to the lung tissue ultimately impair breathing. The condition, known as coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (CWP) or black lung disease, doesn’t have a cure, but treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent the disease from progressing. First established in 1969, the Federal Black Lung Benefits Program helps affected miners by providing financial and medical benefits. If you or a loved one is searching for a knowledgeable black lung program doctor in Buffalo, Medical Care of WNY is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care.

What Is the Federal Black Lung Benefits Program?

While largely preventable, black lung disease is still relatively common, affecting about 16% of coal workers. The disease generally develops gradually over several years or decades, even after exposure to the dust has ended. In an effort to specifically address the health needs of current and former coal miners, Congress passed the Black Lung Benefits Act.

The Black Lung Benefits Program, also known as the Coal Miner Workers’ Compensation Program, provides monthly benefits to coal miners with pneumoconiosis (black lung disease) as a result of their employment in or around coal mines. The program also offers monthly payments to eligible survivors of miners who died due to employment-related pneumoconiosis. The program’s goal is to support those affected by long-term exposure to coal dust. It can also supplement state workers’ compensation, unemployment insurance, or social security benefits.

At a Glance:

• Target audience: Coal miners suffering from pneumoconiosis (black lung disease) and their survivors
• Coverage: Provides benefits for those disabled by black lung disease due to coal mine employment
• Benefits: Includes monthly payments and medical benefits for miners, and payments to eligible survivors
• Administration: Managed by the Division of Coal Mine Workers’ Compensation in the U.S. Department of Labor
• Unique feature: Focused on health issues arising from coal dust exposure in coal miners

Coal Mine Workers’ Compensation Medical Benefits

The Black Lung Program helps affected miners access medical treatment by providing monthly benefits to eligible individuals. The necessary treatment is determined by the severity of the condition, which depends on the type of coal dust, the concentration of the dust in the air, and the duration of exposure. At first, symptoms like chest tightness, coughing, or shortness of breath may occur after strenuous activity. However, as the disease worsens, these may occur even at rest. Fortunately, the program provides coverage for a range of health needs, including:

• Doctors visits
• Hospital care
• Home healthcare
• Medications such as bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and antibiotics
• Oxygen therapy
• Pulmonary rehabilitation
• Lung transplant
• Diagnostic services like X-rays, CT scans, and lung function tests
• Certain transportation costs

Other medical supplies, services, or equipment directly related to the miner’s occupational lung disease may also be covered.

Who Is Eligible for Black Lung Program Benefits?

Miners or former miners who are totally disabled due to respiratory diseases caused by their work in coal mines, as well as eligible survivors, can receive benefits through the Coal Mine Workers’ Compensation Program. These benefits cover disabilities resulting from chronic respiratory diseases like black lung disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Miners are considered totally disabled if their respiratory condition prevents them from performing their usual coal mining tasks or similar work they were previously capable of doing. To be eligible for benefits, miners must demonstrate that their disability is caused directly by a respiratory disease from employment in or near a coal mine.

The program covers coal mine workers, including miners, construction workers, transportation workers, and processing workers. Essentially, any employee whose job is performed in or around a coal mine or processing facility may be eligible.

Individuals not covered by the program include railroad and coal-fired power plant workers (even if exposed to coal dust), people who live near coal mines, and family members claiming exposure in the home (e.g., from the miner’s clothing).

How To File a Claim

You can file a Black Lung Benefits Program claim using the online Claimant Online Access Link (C.O.A.L.). This online portal allows you to file your claim, upload documents to your file, and check the status of your claim without the hassles and delays of traditional mail.

1. Complete an application: Complete Form CM-911 (“Miner’s Claim for Benefits under the Black Lung Act” as well as Form CM-911a (“Employment History”).
2. Provide additional information as needed: You may be asked to submit additional documents, such as marriage and birth certificates. These particular documents are used to provide coverage to eligible dependents.
3. Schedule a complete pulmonary evaluation: The Department of Labor (DOL) will contact you to schedule a free pulmonary evaluation to help determine your eligibility. The assessment includes a physical exam, a chest X-ray, a pulmonary function test, and an arterial blood gas test. The DOL will provide a list of eligible physicians. You’ll return the provided “Selection of Examining Provider” form identifying your physician. Then, the DOL will send you a letter authorizing the required tests, allowing you to schedule the evaluation.
4. Claim review: The district office will review all evidence and make an initial determination on your claim. They will either approve or deny your claim or request additional information. If approved, the DOL will notify any potentially liable coal mine operator, who has 30 days to accept or contest liability.

If your claim is approved, you’ll receive a Black Lung Benefits identification card that allows you to seek treatment for your lung condition without a deductible or co-payment. Your benefits are paid for by the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund, a coal mine employer, or the employer’s insurance carrier.

For more detailed information about the claims process, click here.

Why Choose Medical Care of WNY as Your Black Lung Program Doctor?

If you or a loved one worked in a coal mine and are seeking a knowledgeable and reliable medical practice for treatment or rehabilitation, we can help. At Medical Care of WNY, we have extensive experience working with state and federal workers’ compensation programs, allowing our patients to access the quality healthcare they are entitled to. We bill the Federal Black Lung Program directly so that you don’t have to worry about reimbursement.

We treat respiratory conditions like COPD and provide comprehensive care for our patients’ diverse needs. Our facility offers on-site physical therapy, primary care, certain diagnostic testing, and many other treatments and services. With various specialties under one roof, you can receive comprehensive and coordinated care without traveling between different locations. Experience convenient, compassionate, and personalized healthcare with the team at Medical Care of WNY.

Need a Black Lung Program Doctor? Schedule a Consultation!

The Federal Black Lung Benefits Program (or Coal Mine Workers’ Compensation) provides essential financial and medical assistance to miners affected by black lung disease and other work-related respiratory conditions, ensuring they receive the support and care they need. Medical Care of WNY is committed to helping you navigate this vital program and access the benefits you deserve.

If you or a loved one is looking for a black lung program doctor, don’t wait to get help. Our dedicated team is here to provide compassionate, expert care and guide you through the process of obtaining your benefits. Let us support you on your journey to better health and improved quality of life. Contact us now to book your appointment and take the first step towards receiving the assistance you deserve.