Bill 1 to legislate workers' compensation coverage for Alberta's first responders

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder will be presumed to be work-related

The Alberta government has introduced legislation to streamline the process for Alberta’s first responders to receive Workers’ Compensation Board coverage for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

“Bill 1 reaffirms our commitment to our province's first responders recognizing their crucial role in Albertans’ safety and health and dealing with some of life's most traumatic experiences,” said Premier Alison Redford. “These brave men and women put their lives on the line in our greatest time of need, and we need to respond to them when they need help.”

Changes proposed under Bill 1: The Workers’ Compensation Amendment Act will allow firefighters, police officers, sheriffs and paramedics to receive compensation for PTSD without having to prove their condition is work-related.

“There is increased awareness of the affects of PTSD over the last decade,” said Human Services Minister Dave Hancock. "This proposed legislation recognizes first responders who face traumatic experiences. We are proud to support them and bring forward legislation that leads the country.”

PTSD is an intense emotional and psychological response to a recent or past traumatic event that is life-threatening, very disturbing or stressful. Symptoms include reliving the event through nightmares or flashbacks, emotional numbness, avoiding reminders of the event, and being on edge or easily startled.

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