VCF Update: July 5, 2016 Ruling on New-Onset COPD and Acute Traumatic Injury

On July 5, 2016 NIOSH published a new rule in the Federal Register to add new-onset COPD and WTC-related acute traumatic injury for treatment under the World Trade Center Health Program. The rule becomes final on August 4, 2016.

Previously covered and included on the List of WTC-Related Health Conditions was "COPD which was exacerbated by 9/11 exposure". The new ruling permits the WTC Health Program to certify cases of COPD determined to have been caused or contributed by 9/11 exposures ("new-onset").

Additionally, previously covered and included on the List of WTC-Related Health Conditions was "musculoskeletal disorders", considered to be caused by WTC-related repetitive motion or heavy lifting. The new ruling adds "WTC-related acute traumatic injury", defined as "a type of injury characterized by physical damage to a person's body that must have been caused by and occurred immediately after exposure to hazards or adverse conditions characterized by a one-time exposure to energy resulting from the terrorist attacks of their aftermath".

Each WTC Health Program member's health condition will be evaluated in accordance with the Program's published policies and procedures.

For the full ruling click here.