Effective medical services are vital in achieving successful workplace injury management. To assist injured workers to recover quickly from an injury, the legislation administered by WorkCover authorises the role of medical practitioners in the workers compensation system.
The AMA has published the List of Medical Services and Fees effective from 1 November 2011. Please note that the new fees do not come into effect for workers compensation until 1 January 2012 in line with WorkCover's fees orders.
Responsible for coordinating all aspects of injury treatment and assisting in return to work management. The worker nominates this doctor, usually their general practitioner.
A registered medical practitioner who assists in the return to work process when differences arise between the nominated treating doctor, the employer, insurer and/or injured worker.
A senior specialist, with a sound knowledge of the NSW workers compensation system, who is appointed by the Workers Compensation Commission to resolve disputes about medical issues or whole person impairment - the latter must be trained assessors of permanent impairment.
A medical specialist trained to use of the WorkCover Guides for the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment to assess permanent impairment for injuries incurred after 1 January 2002.
A medical specialist with qualifications relevant to the treatment of the worker's injury. Has the expertise to provide independent, impartial advice to workers, insurers and the legal profession about causes of the medical condition, reasonably necessary treatment, the workers fitness to undertake suitable duties, and the assessment of loss for injuries prior to 1 January 2002.
Medical specialists may be involved in treatement and rehabilitation:
These surgeons do not need to be appointed by WorkCover.
Call 13 10 50 for more information about medical practitioners.