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 that this role going forward requires a person with a different set of skills and networks to that which I possess to be able to progress AMA initiatives with WorkCover and other relevant organisations.

I am proud of my role in the achievements of the AMA in this area to date:

• The development of a coherent set of proposals to improve health outcomes for injured workers managed within compensation systems involving widespread consultation amongst doctors involved in the treatment of work injuries

• The development of an effective mechanism for communication with insurers – The AMA Insurer Forum

While withdrawing from the AMA Convenor role, I remain committed to achieving improvements in Tasmania’s worker’s compensation system and I plan to direct my energies to other strategies relevant to achieving those goals.

Peter Sharman