Mesothelioma, a rare but aggressive form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, has affected thousands of individuals around the world. The diagnosis of mesothelioma can be devastating not only to the patient but also to their family due to the high medical expenses that come with it. To address this issue, the UK government introduced the Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme (DMPS) in 2014.
What is the Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme?
The DMPS is a government-funded scheme that provides financial assistance to those who have been diagnosed with diffuse mesothelioma caused by exposure to asbestos. This scheme was established to help individuals who were unable to claim compensation from the employers responsible for their exposure to asbestos due to the closure of the company or the unavailability of insurance records.
The DMPS is administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and is funded by a levy imposed on Employers’ Liability Insurers. This scheme is intended to provide a lump sum payment to people diagnosed with mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure on or after 25 July 2012, whose employers were not insured or cannot be traced.
Who is Eligible for the DMPS?
To be eligible for the DMPS, the following conditions must be met:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Diagnosis | The individual must have been diagnosed with diffuse mesothelioma after 25 July 2012. |
| Exposure | The individual must have been exposed to asbestos in the UK while employed. |
| Employer | The individual’s employer must have been uninsured or cannot be traced. |
How Much Compensation Can One Receive from DMPS?
The amount of compensation that one can receive from DMPS depends on their age, the date of their diagnosis, and the level of their asbestos exposure. The DMPS provides a one-off payment that can be as high as £140,000.
How to Apply for DMPS?
The application process for DMPS is straightforward. An individual can apply for DMPS themselves or have a family member, friend, or solicitor apply on their behalf. The application form can be downloaded from the government’s website, and it must be submitted along with the required documents.
What Documents are Required to Apply for DMPS?
The following documents must be submitted along with the DMPS application form:
- Medical evidence of the mesothelioma diagnosis
- Proof of the employment history
- Proof of the employer’s lack of insurance or inability to trace
What is the Timeframe for DMPS Application?
An application for DMPS must be submitted within six months of receiving a mesothelioma diagnosis. However, in exceptional circumstances, the DWP may consider applications received later than six months.
What Happens after Submitting the DMPS Application?
After the DMPS application is submitted, it will be reviewed by the DWP. In cases where additional information or evidence is needed, the DWP may contact the applicant or their representatives. The application will then be approved or rejected based on the eligibility criteria.
What Happens if the DMPS Application is Rejected?
If the DMPS application is rejected, the applicant can appeal the decision by providing additional evidence or by requesting an appeal hearing.
No, the DMPS is only available for individuals diagnosed with diffuse mesothelioma caused by exposure to asbestos. However, there are other compensation schemes available for individuals diagnosed with other asbestos-related conditions.
How is the DMPS Funded?
The DMPS is funded by a levy imposed on Employers’ Liability Insurers. The amount of the levy varies based on the total market share of the insurer.
What is the Impact of DMPS on Mesothelioma Victims?
The DMPS has provided financial assistance and support to thousands of mesothelioma victims and their families. This scheme has helped ease the financial burden that comes with mesothelioma treatment, enabling those affected to focus on their health and well-being.
Conclusion: Make Sure to Apply for DMPS
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with diffuse mesothelioma caused by exposure to asbestos, it’s essential to apply for the DMPS as soon as possible. This scheme can provide much-needed financial assistance and support during a challenging time. Don’t hesitate to apply and get the compensation you deserve.
FAQ
1. Is the DMPS available for individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma caused by exposure to asbestos outside of the UK?
No, the DMPS is only available for individuals diagnosed with diffuse mesothelioma caused by exposure to asbestos in the UK.
2. Can a solicitor apply for DMPS on behalf of their client?
Yes, a solicitor can apply for DMPS on behalf of their client.
3. Does the DMPS cover the cost of mesothelioma treatment?
No, the DMPS only provides a lump sum payment to individuals diagnosed with diffuse mesothelioma caused by exposure to asbestos. It does not cover the cost of mesothelioma treatment.
4. How long does it take to receive payment from DMPS?
The payment from DMPS is typically received within 12 weeks of the application being approved.
5. Can an individual receive compensation from both DMPS and their employer’s insurance?
No, an individual cannot receive compensation from both DMPS and their employer’s insurance.
6. Can an individual apply for DMPS if they have already received compensation from their employer’s insurance?
No, an individual cannot apply for DMPS if they have already received compensation from their employer’s insurance.
7. What is the maximum amount of compensation that one can receive from DMPS?
The DMPS provides a one-off payment that can be as high as £140,000.
8. Can an individual reapply for DMPS if their application is rejected?
Yes, an individual can reapply for DMPS if their application is rejected by providing additional evidence or by requesting an appeal hearing.
9. What is the timeframe for DMPS payment after the application is approved?
The payment from DMPS is typically received within 12 weeks of the application being approved.
10. Can an individual apply for DMPS if their employer’s insurance company is still active?
No, an individual cannot apply for DMPS if their employer’s insurance company is still active.
11. Is the DMPS available for individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma caused by exposure to asbestos before 25 July 2012?
No, the DMPS is only available for individuals diagnosed with diffuse mesothelioma caused by exposure to asbestos on or after 25 July 2012.
12. Is the DMPS available for individuals diagnosed with other types of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos?
No, the DMPS is only available for individuals diagnosed with diffuse mesothelioma caused by exposure to asbestos.
13. Can an individual apply for DMPS if their employer is still in business but did not have insurance at the time of asbestos exposure?
No, an individual cannot apply for DMPS if their employer is still in business but did not have insurance at the time of asbestos exposure.
Closing: Take Action Now
Mesothelioma is a devastating disease that can have a significant impact on the lives of those affected and their loved ones. The DMPS is a lifeline for mesothelioma victims who were unable to claim compensation from their employers. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with diffuse mesothelioma caused by exposure to asbestos, it’s essential to take action now and apply for the DMPS. You deserve the financial assistance and support that this scheme provides during a challenging time.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. The readers are advised to seek legal or medical advice from a qualified professional with respect to their individual circumstances.
