Most employers in Oregon with one or more employees are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance.
Certain casual employees, independent contractors, and some domestic workers may be exempt.
No-Fault System
Oregon workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning injured employees may receive benefits regardless of who caused the injury.
Reporting an Injury & Time Limits
A work-related injury must be reported to the employer as soon as possible.
The general statute of limitations to file a formal claim is two years from the date of injury, or from the date the worker knew or should have known of the injury.
Income & Medical Benefits
Payment for necessary medical treatment.
Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits at 66 2/3% of the average weekly wage.
Compensation for permanent partial or total disability, if applicable.
Oregon also provides vocational assistance benefits for eligible injured workers.
Protection From Retaliation
An injured employee cannot be terminated or discriminated against for filing a workers’ compensation claim.
Choice of Treating Physician
Oregon employees generally have the right to choose their attending physician, but must select from a Managed Care Organization (MCO) if the employer participates in one.
An employee may request a change of attending physician once without cause.
Independent Medical Examination (IME)
Either party may request an IME (called a Medical Arbiter Examination in Oregon) to resolve disputes about the employee’s medical condition or disability.
Contact Doctors’ Council if you would like assistance with requesting an IME or changing doctors.