Author Archives: Michael Barasch
Adding Conditions to an Existing VCF Claim
Studies have compellingly linked a multitude of conditions affecting various bodily systems to WTC debris exposure. It has become painfully obvious, however, that many exposure victims can find themselves suffering from several of these conditions. In many cases, their illnesses did not manifest all at once but developed incrementally over a long period of time. […]
WTC Health Program Adjusts Standards for Aerodigestive Disorders
Aerodigestive disorders—illnesses affecting the respiratory and digestive systems—are increasingly prevalent among 9/11 first responders and others exposed to the debris during rescue and clean-up operations. Many of these conditions did not manifest until years after the attacks. This has made it difficult for a number of those afflicted to prove that their illnesses are related […]
VCF Adds Deputy Special Master
Administering the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) is a significant responsibility. Despite notable progress, the Special Master and her staff have faced criticism for the pace at which claims are being processed. As of October 2013, the VCF had a staff of 75, including 11 attorneys working directly under the Special Master. The Special Master […]
New Compensation Statistics Published
Recent numbers indicate that significant progress has been made to compensate victims of the events of September 11. The Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) continues to pick up momentum in its efforts to process claims and distribute payments to eligible applicants. But more work remains before we can say that all victims and families seeking redress […]
Are the Statistics on Your Side?
Statistics show that getting your Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) claim approved depends mostly on whether the VCF has adequate documentation. At the end of January, 2014, the VCF Program released statistics that give you an idea of the number of claims that fail to move through the system and why. Before the VCF even reviews […]
Benefits Related to Losses Caused by 9/11 Injuries
Severe illness or injury related to 9/11 inevitably results in economic losses such as lost wages, job loss or loss of career. By comparison, non-economic losses are less tangible, such as pain and suffering. However they are also compensable. People have concerns about being compensated for such losses and rightly so. It is important to […]
Amendments to List of WTC-Related Conditions Include More Types of Cancer
Recent revisions to the list of World Trade Center Related Conditions resulted in newly eligible certifications for four types of cancer: Brain Cervical Pancreatic Testicular The Federal Register issued a report about the Health and Human Services Department’s final rule in February, 2014. Previously, individuals with these types of cancers were denied World Trade Center […]
What Options Do You Have if You Suffer PTSD from 9/11?
Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental condition that develops after facing a traumatic event. With PTSD, the high adrenaline response to escape from danger is relived even though danger is no longer present. PTSD can develop as a result of any traumatic incident and many people who were involved in one way or […]
How Does the VCF Pay Your Award?
After the Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) determines that you are eligible for an award, you have the right to accept the amount awarded or appeal if you believe the amount is inadequate. If you accept the award, you receive an initial payment within 20 days from your acceptance date. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) […]
How Do You Handle Medical Information for a VCF Claim?
Initially, the Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) planned to reach out directly to physicians and gather medical information for claimants. However, most physicians preferred direct requests from patients instead. Consequently, patients work with their physicians to provide the necessary information for VCF claims. Also, claimants must pay for the expenses involved with the physician documenting records […]
