Photo Credit: AP Photo/Dylan Lovan

Black Lung Clinics (Medical Care & Screenings)

The Black Lung Clinics Program, funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), supports clinics across the coalfields specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of black lung disease. These clinics serve active, retired, and disabled miners daily regardless of ability to pay. These services typically include:

  • Chest X-rays and lung function tests

  • Diagnosis and treatment services

  • Pulmonary rehabilitation and breathing support

  • Benefits counseling and care coordination

Legal Aid for Miners & Dependents

Miners can apply for federal black lung benefits at no cost.

Filing for federal black lung disability benefits can be complex, and many miners and their families face challenges when navigating this system. Free and low-cost legal assistance services are available across the region. While it is not a requirement for filing a federal black lung claim, having an attorney representing you on your case can provide the following support:

  • Gathering and presenting critical medical evidence

  • Navigating the complexities of Black Lung Benefits Act (BLBA) claims

  • Representation at formal hearings before Administrative Law Judges

  • Appealing denied or underpaid claims

  • Gathering employment data and testimonies

  • Identifying all responsible employers

  • Coordinating with other benefits

Additionally, many of the lawfirms listed below can also provide assistance for miners who have other legal health and safety concerns on the job.

Labor Unions & Worker Advocacy Organizations

Unions remain a source of support, advocacy, and resource for miners affected by black lung.

United Mine Workers of America (UMWA)

The UMWA provides access to a Benefits Services Program, which connects coal miners and their families with legal assistance for:

  • Black lung claims

  • Workers’ compensation

  • Social Security disability

Legal services are often provided on a contingency or reduced-fee basis.

The UMWA also plays an important role in advocating for stronger dust and safety protections for miners, defending key federal programs, and supporting mining communities in policy fights.

Black Lung Associations

The Black Lung Association (BLA) is a grassroots, miner-led group located throughout Appalachia’s coalfields. The BLA has a national organizing committee along with chapters across Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Services include:

  • Education about black lung benefits

  • Assistance connecting with clinics and attorneys

  • Community advocacy and organizing

There are active chapters across the region that meet on a monthly basis. Consult the map below to find the nearest BLA chapter to you as well as their meeting times and days.

Additional Help & Support

Federal Resources

  • Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program

    • This program offers free screenings to detect black lung early. Their traveling surveillance van’s schedule is listed here.

      • Be sure to check frequently as new dates, times, and locations are updated regularly!

What to Do if You Need Help Now

  1. Get screened at a black lung clinic if you have symptoms, including chronic and persistent coughing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, or fatigue. Check out this map to find a local clinic near you.

  2. Contact a legal advocate before filing a claim.

  3. Reach out to your local Black Lung Association chapter if you need support navigating next steps.

If you or a loved one is concerned about black lung disease, you are not alone. Across Appalachia, there is a network of clinics, legal aid services, labor unions, and community organizations dedicated to helping coal miners access the medical care, benefits counseling, and support needed.

This page will connect you with trusted resources that provide free or low-cost services, including medical treatment, legal assistance, and help navigating the federal black lung benefits system.