Hundreds of FDNY EMS Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics responded to the terrorist attacks on 9/11 and assisted in the recovery efforts at Ground Zero, the Fresh Kills Landfill, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, and temporary morgue locations. EMS responders who have since developed a 9/11 related health condition may be eligible for free health care and compensation benefits under the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act.
Additionally, EMS workers who participated in 9/11 rescue and recovery may be eligible for benefits through The NYC Employment Retirement System (“NYCERS”). NYCERS provides enhanced health coverage for eligible EMS workers who have been diagnosed with a 9/11 related health condition, and line-of-duty death benefits to families of EMS workers who have died from a 9/11 related health condition.
However, last week, which happened to be National EMS week, EMS workers were shocked to receive a letter from NYCERS informing them that the FDNY could not confirm their participation in 9/11 rescue and recovery efforts. EMS workers were further advised that they had 60 days to prepare their own proof such as log books, affidavits, photographs, badges or passes. Given the nearly 15 years that have passed since 9/11, EMS workers are now faced with a daunting and depressing task. The President of the Uniformed EMS Officers Union, Vincent Variale, commented to the Daily News that it is a “disgrace” to his members.
EMS workers seeking compensation under the 9/11 Health and Compensation Act should not be alarmed – the attorneys at Pitta & Baione LLP are experienced and skilled in successfully obtaining compensation despite the lack of documentary proof due often to the nearly 15 years that have passed since 9/11.
Call Pitta & Baione LLP at 844-982-2667 to speak with an attorney about whether you may be eligible for benefits under the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act.
