An expert mesothelioma lawyer can make all the difference to achieving compensation in your asbestos claim. We understand the devastating medical and personal consequences of a mesothelioma, and can guide you through the claims process from start to finish with compassion and care.
According to some health experts, immunotherapy may be one of the most promising treatments available against mesothelioma, the aggressive lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure.
According to The Age there were 757 new cases of mesothelioma reported in 2016, and 651 people died from the disease. Sadly, these numbers are projected to grow as a result of both mesothelioma’s incredibly slow development (sometimes 20-30+ years) and as part of a “third wave” of diagnoses that are the product of unsafe DIY renovations.
There is currently no cure for mesothelioma. However, in some cases, immunotherapy treatments have been shown to increase the prognosis for mesothelioma sufferers.
What is immunotherapy and how does it work?
Immunotherapy is used to fight various cancers by promoting and strengthening the body’s naturally occurring defenses within the immune system. It is sometimes used in conjunction with chemotherapy, but unlike chemotherapy, immunotherapy should not inadvertently harm healthy cells.
On top of all this, immunotherapy may have less side effects than other cancer treatments.
How does this affect an asbestos claim?
After your diagnosis, your oncologist may recommend a course of immunotherapy for mesothelioma. In this instance, it is possible that the costs of these treatments can become part of your asbestos compensation claim.
Unfortunately, immunotherapy for mesothelioma can cost several thousands of dollars per treatment, and is not currently listed as part of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
It’s hard enough dealing with the devastating personal consequences of a mesothelioma diagnosis without adding a further financial burden of these and other costly treatments.
Our experienced mesothelioma lawyers at Gordon Legal would argue that, if your oncologist prescribes immunotherapy treatment, this should be considered a reasonable medical expense and you should be compensated for it.
In some states, immunotherapy treatment costs are covered by workers’ compensation schemes. In other states, it comes down to the strength of your doctor’s opinion and the individual facts of your case.
Our asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers are highly experienced in this complex area of the law. Chat to us anytime on 1800 21 22 23
An expert mesothelioma lawyer can advise you on the type of compensation you may be eligible for, as well as guide you through any other questions, concerns or advice you may need about asbestos claims. Give us a call on
FAQ
Can I sue for asbestos exposure?
If you have been exposed to asbestos, you should notify your GP, and continue to get regular medical check-ups. However, unless you develop an asbestos related disease, you will not be able to pursue a claim.
If you have been exposed to asbestos, as well as seeking regular medical examination, it is good practise to note down all the information relating to your exposure, so that you have a record of the incident. This way, if you do develop an illness relating to your exposure in the future, you will have the details you need to assist with a claim for compensation.
How do I prove asbestos exposure?
The most common way to prove asbestos exposure is a diagnosis from a medical practitioner of a disease which has been caused by exposure to asbestos, such as mesothelioma.
Many people are exposed to asbestos in the course of their employment. An asbestos lawyer will be able to look into your work history to establish at which workplace your asbestos exposure likely occurred. Your lawyer will also be able to look into whether your former employer has had other claims made against them in the past, as well as other information about their use of asbestos.
If you reported your exposure to a medical practitioner, this can also be used to assist in proving your exposure. Additionally, records you made at the time of your exposure, if they exist, can be of assistance.
Who is liable for Asbestos Exposure?
Who holds liability for your asbestos exposure can be different depending on the circumstances of your situation. There can also be more than one party liable for your exposure. An experienced asbestos lawyer can examine the specifics of your situation to advise on who could be liable for your asbestos exposure.
Commonly, those liable can be an employer, an asbestos manufacturer, or occupiers of work sites where the exposure occurred. Your lawyer will discuss this with you in more detail, based on the circumstances of your exposure.
How is Asbestos Liability Compensated?
Asbestos compensation differs depending on your individual circumstances.
If your exposure occurred at work, you may be entitled to compensation such as weekly payments under WorkCover, medical expenses, lump sum compensation for serious injuries, compensation for your dependants, and compensation at common law.
If your exposure occurred in public, and you have a claim under Public Liability, you may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, medical expenses, and economic loss.
An asbestos lawyer will discuss this with you in more detail, and explain how it applies to your specific circumstances.
What is the average asbestos settlement?
The amount of compensation you receive will depend on the facts of your situation. Once your asbestos lawyer has a greater understanding of your circumstances, they will be able to give you a more accurate estimate of what you may receive in compensation.
Typically, compensation will cover pain and suffering, past and future medical expenses, past and future loss of earnings, and shortened life expectancy
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