What is the purpose of a ‘claim form’ (DWC-1) in California Workers’ Compensation?

The purpose of a claim form, known as the DWC-1 in California workers' compensation, is to document and initiate a worker's claim for benefits. This form serves as the initial point of contact for an employee who has sustained a work-related injury or illness to officially report the incident. By filling out the DWC-1, the injured worker provides essential information, including details about the injury, the date it occurred, and the circumstances surrounding the event. This initiates the process of securing medical treatment and compensation for the worker, ensuring that they are able to access the benefits to which they are entitled under California law.

The other choices pertain to different processes within the workers' compensation system but do not accurately describe the primary function of the DWC-1 form. While requesting a medical examination, appealing a denial of benefits, or verifying employment status are all important aspects of managing a workers' compensation claim, they are not the primary role of the DWC-1 form.