From 1951 through 1992, approximately 50,000 construction workers took part in the 800 atmospheric and underground nuclear weapons tests that were conducted at the Nevada Test Site (NTS). The underground tests were primarily the work of construction workers who dug the tunnels, maintained the test beds, and re-entered the tunnels following the tests. This report will focus on the experience of approximately 2200 former NTS workers who have participated in the DOE funded on-going medical screening and surveillance program conducted in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Based on interviews, focus groups, and anecdotal reports from screening participants, we anticipate that the NTS workers with probable work-related illnesses will have a difficult experience in utilizing the Nevada workers' compensation system. Based on data we have previously reviewed, the overwhelming majority of pursued claims have been denied. Many more individuals with potential claims have chosen not to file. We believe that less obvious barriers to successful claims may be identified such as the lack of trained occupational medicine providers. In addition, since most of the screened workers have health insurance, we believe that financial barriers should not significantly affect follow-up medical care. However, we expect that other reported barriers to follow-up will range from not having a primary care physician to not believing that the condition warrants follow-up.
Learning Objectives: At the end of the session participants will 1) be familiar with the range of occupational and non-occupational medical problems experienced by the NTS workforce, 2) be aware of the barriers to follow-up medical evaluation experienced by the workers after this screening program; and 3) be able to describe institutional and individual obstacles to receiving appropriate compensation for work and non-work related health problems of NTS workers.
Keywords: Occupational Health Programs, Occupational Exposure
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.