Daman will cover work injuries

ABU DHABI // Workers who are injured or fall ill on the job will be covered by insurance for treatment under a new scheme from Daman, the nation's largest health insurer. The move comes in response to a recent decision by the Health Authority-Abu Dhabi (HAAD) that medical expenses related to work injuries should be covered under basic health insurance. The change in policy took effect March 22, allowing anyone with a claim from that date to be covered by Daman, under the new rules.

Daman said insurance premiums would not be increased. "We were quick to act following HAAD's announcement," said Dr Michael Blitzer, the chief executive of Daman. "By revising our policies in accordance with the new resolution, we are now able to further enhance our offerings." Daman insures 1.8 million people across the country but is particularly prominent in Abu Dhabi, where it covers about 80 per cent of the population.

Previously, Work Compensation Insurance covered a person who was injured or fell ill at work. mchung@thenational.ae