I am curious what others are doing for work related exposures or possible exposures. In TX, our city insurance carrier (TML for most municipalities) is being very tight-lipped about how this is ultimately going to be addressed. If an officer becomes positive, is it going to be covered by worker comp? I know of at least one state-wide union that is pushing the state (TX) to declare any first responder who tests positive for COVID19 to be presumptive it was duty-related.
For our internal agency protocols, if someone (arrestee, involved person, etc) self-declares they have it or a family member states they have it and officers are exposed to that person, we are completing our normal first report of injury documentation. If we come into contact with someone who is confirmed to have COVID19 through official testing, we are doing the same documentation and also treating it like a blood exposure (additional paperwork and notification of City Infectious Disease Control Officer).
Anyone have other ideas or protocols you are using? Always looking for a better way!
Bedford PD is following the same protocols, but ensuring proper identification is in place and documented. We have designated officers monitoring every potential case and ensuring the information is current and appropriate actions taken.
I just found this that effects us here in TX. Good info:
Governor Greg Abbott has waived certain statutory provisions to ensure public safety employees who contract COVID-19 during the course of their employment will be reimbursed for reasonable medical expenses related to their treatment of COVID-19. Because the nature of their duties has caused them to increase their risk of contracting COVID-19, the Governor has waived these statutory provisions so that public safety employees who contract COVID-19 are not also financially penalized.
“Texas’ public safety employees are vital to our COVID-19 response,” said Governor Abbott. “These brave men and women are on the front lines and risking potential exposure to keep our communities safe. By waiving these regulations, Texas will ensure that those who may contract COVID-19 will have the support they need to pay for medical expenses.”