When a claim for workers compensation is disputed the first step is that the insurer/employer seeks a determination by the Workers Rehabilitation & Compensation Tribunal of a ‘reasonably arguable case’. There is a relatively low threshold for the Tribunal to make such a finding i.e. establish that there is some reasonable doubt about liability. This […]
Employee Assist for DHHS employees
I have recently been made aware that DHHS employees have access to a free counselling programme through Converge International. This is a confidential service available to all employees for up to 4 sessions per issue. Phone: 1300 687 327 For further information about Converge International see their website: http://www.convergeinternational.com.au
Useful links – Resources for Injured Workers and Professionals
My blog includes a listing of useful resources, in addition to the links on this site: https://insultandinjury.org/useful-links/
Peter Sharman withdraws from role as Convenor of AMA Workers Compensation Subcommittee
After nearly 3 years in this challenging role, I have decided to withdraw as Convenor of the AMA Workers Compensation Subcommittee. I have recognised that it would be best for another interested doctor to take on this role to explain and progress the AMA’s proposals for improvements to Tasmania’s workers compensation system. I have reached the conclusion […]
Government Tables Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Amendment Bill 2016
The Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Amendment Bill 2016 includes provisions to remove the requirement for medical practitioners to be accredited by WorkCover to issue Workers Compensation Medical Certificates and to make significant changes to the WorkCover Board.The requirement for accreditation of medical practitioners to conduct assessments of Whole Person Impairment (WPI) will remain. The changes to […]
New Chief Commissioner Appointed
The Premier’s Office recently announced the appointment of a new Chief Commissioner of the Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Tribunal, Mr Robert Webster to replace the outgoing Mr Steve Carey. See link to announcement below: http://www.premier.tas.gov.au/releases/new_chief_commissioner_appointed
ACHRF ‘Committee’s Choice’ Poster Award
I made a presentation at the recent Australasian Compensation Health Research Forum in Melbourne. The presentation was in the form of a Poster presenting the work the AMA had done in promoting the concept of ‘Complex Case Management’ as an alternative ‘clinical pathway’ for workers with potentially poor-prognosis work injuries. I was pleased to be awarded […]
Dr McArdle joins Hobart Occupational Medicine
The practice is pleased to welcome Helen to join the practice after a long period of service with the Tasmanian Health Department in various roles. Helen brings to the practice a wealth of knowledge and experience. Helen is available to accept referrals from general practitioners and provide expert opinion in her fields of expertise. See […]
Adverse Event Reporting
As from 01 March 2016, this practice has introduced a new system to systematically record adverse events affecting workers being managed with the various compensation systems that operate in Tasmania. This has come about in response to an apparent recent increase in such events and the lack of any available means to track such events through […]
Tilting at Windmills – Light Easter Reading?
There is an interesting discussion in the comments section of the Tilting at Windmills article I recently posted on Insult & Injury Blog. Richard Gilley from RiskNet is providing some data about the proportion of income earned from treating workers compensation cases which seems ‘out of kilter’ with my understanding. I am planning a ‘Fact […]
