Issue:
Although mesothelioma is a cancer that is largely attributable to occupational asbestos exposure, research has shown that as little as one third of individuals with mesothelioma in B.C. also had a workers’ compensation claim for their disease. Further research has been undertaken to rectify this issue, but to date, it is unknown why individuals with mesothelioma do or do not seek compensation benefits. This study will investigate in detail reasons why individuals do or do not seek compensation, as well as avenues for effectively communicating information to them about occupational disease and compensation.
Objectives:
The research objective is to understand reasons behind compensation decisions and to find and promote potentially effective communication avenues for providing information on occupational disease and compensation to workers.
Anticipated Results:
It is anticipated that the research will provide insight into the barriers, challenges and opportunities for patients to seek compensation. It may also result in worker representatives/organizations, workers’ compensation boards, physicians or mesothelioma stakeholder associations implementing strategies to address the barriers to compensation as identified by the research.
Investigators:
Mieke Koehoorn (UBC)
