Connecticut Firefighters’ Cancer Screening Program
Connecticut is leading the way in protecting firefighters’ health, acknowledging the increased risk of occupational cancer associated with their critical work.
Connecticut Firefighters’ Cancer Relief Program (Substitute Bill 1426, 2025): A Guide for Fire Department Leadership
Connecticut’s Firefighters’ Cancer Relief Program, established under Substitute Senate Bill 1426 (2025), provides critical support to firefighters diagnosed with certain types of cancer resulting from their line-of-duty service. This program ensures that eligible firefighters—or their surviving dependents—receive compensation, disability, and retirement benefits similar to those provided under workers’ compensation for occupational diseases. Fire department leadership plays a key role in helping personnel understand eligibility requirements, apply for benefits, and navigate the claims process to secure timely support.
Note: We will continually update this toolkit with the latest information as it becomes available. Stay tuned for the most current details to ensure your department has access to all necessary resources.
Ready to learn more? Schedule your program overview today!
Eligibility and Coverage
The Connecticut Firefighters Cancer Relief Program is specifically tailored to:
Active Firefighters
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Interior structural firefighters performing fire suppression or rescue inside buildings or enclosed structures.
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Fire marshals, deputy fire marshals, fire investigators, fire inspectors, and other inspectors or investigators certified under state minimum standards.
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Firefighters employed by municipal, state, or volunteer fire departments.
Retired or Former Firefighters
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Individuals who have left active service but were eligible under the program within five years of their last day of service.
Covered Conditions
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Cancer affecting the skin, brain, skeletal, digestive, endocrine, respiratory, lymphatic, reproductive, urinary, or hematological systems.
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Eligibility requires that the cancer results in death or temporary or permanent total or partial disability.
The program ensures that all eligible firefighters and their dependents have access to compensation, benefits, and medical coverage for qualifying cancer conditions.
Screening Details and Frequency
Eligible firefighters must participate in annual medical health screenings as recommended by their healthcare provider. These screenings are intended to detect early signs of occupational cancers and monitor overall health.
Key Points
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Screenings are required after entry into service and continue annually throughout employment.
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Physical examinations must show no evidence of cancer at the time of entry into service.
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Screening recommendations may be tailored by the firefighter’s medical provider based on individual risk factors.
This structured approach ensures that potential occupational cancers are identified early, maximizing opportunities for timely intervention and treatment.
How to Apply and Participate
Participation in Connecticut’s Firefighters’ Cancer Relief Screening Program is voluntary, but strongly encouraged. Firefighters and fire service personnel are urged to take advantage of this critical health opportunity. Follow these steps to get started:
1. Contact UDS Health
- Complete the online contact form to initiate your application or
- Schedule a program overview or
- Call or email UDS Health directly.
2. Submit Your Information
Provide basic details about your employment status and confirm your eligibility for the program.
3. Schedule Your Screening
UDS Health will handle all the logistics of your screening, including scheduling and selecting a convenient location.
4. Attend Your Appointment
Mobile screenings will be conducted at your fire department or local union to maximize convenience.
Filing a Claim and Compensation
Firefighters diagnosed with an eligible cancer can access compensation and benefits through a structured claims process:
Notification and Filing
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Firefighters must provide notice to both the Workers’ Compensation Commission and their municipal or state employer.
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Claims are administered in the same manner as workers’ compensation claims, ensuring standardized procedures.
Compensation and Benefits
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Benefits cover death, temporary, or permanent total or partial disability caused by occupational cancer.
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Eligible firefighters receive:
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Compensation and benefits from the Firefighters Cancer Relief Account.
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Retirement or survivor benefits through the applicable municipal or state retirement system, or disability benefits through the Connecticut State Firefighters Association.
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Any cancer treatment costs not covered by personal or group health insurance may be reimbursed, provided they comply with applicable workers’ compensation regulations.
Appeals Process
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If a claim is denied, firefighters can request reconsideration.
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Administrative law judges have the authority to adjudicate appeals, with the same powers and procedures as workers’ compensation cases.
This framework ensures that firefighters have both financial support and procedural clarity while undergoing screenings, diagnoses, and treatment for occupational cancers.
Importance of Cancer Prevention
Firefighter occupational cancer is the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths in the fire service. The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reports that firefighters face a 9% greater chance of being diagnosed with cancer and a 14% higher likelihood of dying from cancer compared to the general U.S. population. Connecticut’s Firefighters’ Cancer Relief Program ensures that firefighters and their dependents receive timely support for cancer-related conditions arising from their service.
As fire department leaders, it is crucial to ensure that all eligible firefighters take full advantage of these comprehensive screening and early detection programs. By prioritizing early identification, preventive measures, and access to benefits, departments can help reduce the impact of occupational cancer, safeguard firefighter health, and honor the commitment of those who serve on the front lines.
Ready to learn more? Schedule your program overview today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Connecticut Firefighters’ Cancer Relief Screening Program?
The program is available to:
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Active Firefighters: Full-time, paid municipal, state, or volunteer interior structural firefighters; local fire marshals, deputy fire marshals, fire inspectors, fire investigators, and similar roles recognized by the State Fire Marshal.
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Former Firefighters: Individuals who are no longer actively serving but were employed in qualifying roles for at least five years.
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Dependents: In certain circumstances, surviving dependents of firefighters who have passed away from occupational cancer may also access benefits.
Are there any medical requirements to participate?
Yes. Participants must have undergone a physical examination after joining service that did not reveal evidence of the diagnosed cancer and must comply with recommended annual health screenings.
How often can firefighters get screened?
Firefighters are encouraged to complete annual medical health screenings as recommended by their medical provider.
Does smoking history affect eligibility?
Yes. Firefighters who have used cigarettes during the fifteen years prior to diagnosis may not qualify for program benefits.
Is participation mandatory?
No. Participation is completely voluntary, but strongly encouraged to ensure early detection and prevention.
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