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Aug 13, 2024 • 7 min read
7 Things to Consider When Selecting Your WorkCover Doctor
Getting work-related injuries is frustrating, and learning to navigate the complexities of your WorkCover case can be even worse.
When it comes to choosing providers for your workers compensation claim, who you select as your Nominated Treating Doctor (NTD) is pivotal in determining how well you recover from your injuries, and how successful your workers compensation claim will be.
Keep reading to find out what you should take into consideration when selecting an NTD for your workers comp claim, so as to receive better recovery and support.
Note: In this article, we use “WorkCover doctor” to refer to your NTD, but the term WorkCover is no longer in use. See Safework NSW for more details.
What Does a WorkCover Doctor Do for You?
In a WorkCover case, you’ll typically have a Nominated Treating Doctor (NTD) managing your recovery and assisting you with your return to work.
Your WorkCover doctor will assess, diagnose and monitor your medical progress within the context of your workers comp claim. They will also screen you for psychosocial risks that might hinder your recovery.
During the process of your WorkCover case, your NTD will:
- Provide a Certificate of Capacity (COC) with accurate information about your condition, ensuring you and the support team understand your recovery needs
- Develop a comprehensive Return-to-Work (RTW) Plan with treatment recommendations
- Collaborate with your support team (your employer, insurer and other stakeholders) to keep everyone updated about your progress
- Monitor your condition and assess your capacity for work regularly
- Assist with identifying appropriate work options to facilitate rehabilitation
7 Key Factors for Choosing the Right WorkCover Doctor
When determining your WorkCover doctor, several key factors should be considered, especially their expertise and experience with workers compensation claims. Don’t forget to include these on your checklist:
- Experience and Knowledge of WorkCover: Your GP’s understanding of COCs, RTW Plans and medical reports is crucial to your recovery. A doctor with extensive experience with workers comp cases can simplify these processes and make your experience much easier.
- Specialisation in the Type of Injury: Ensure the doctor’s specialisation aligns with the injury you have. A specialist with expertise in your specific condition can recommend more targeted and effective treatment options.
- Excellent Communication Skills: Workers compensation cases can be lengthy and complicated, often requiring multiple case conferences and ongoing coordination. A GP with excellent communication skills will be able to collaborate well with your support team, creating better outcomes for everyone.
In addition to professionalism, you’ll want a WorkCover doctor whose location and availability align with your needs. An ideal WorkCover doctor is able to offer timely appointments and follow-up care for the following reasons:
- Convenient Location: Workplace injuries can be ongoing and may last for an extended period, making a convenient location pivotal for regular visits and consistent care.
- Reasonable Wait Times: Some GPs are very popular and busy, leading to long wait times for appointments. Assess the approximate wait times before starting your workers compensation case with a doctor to ensure prompt delivery of care.
- Option of Telehealth Services: If you live in a remote area or have mobility issues, consider a WorkCover doctor who offers telehealth services. This option can provide continuous care without the need for frequent in-person visits.
- Extensive Medical Network: Your doctor may need to refer you to specialists or work rehab providers based on your condition. A GP who is part of a larger medical network can facilitate these referrals, effectively enhancing your recovery outcomes.
You might ask, can I just keep my GP as the WorkCover doctor? The answer is yes. You can often achieve a better recovery by working with a doctor you trust, as long as they are qualified and experienced in handling workers comp cases.
Your Role and Considerations in the Process
You’re definitely the main character in your WorkCover case. After thorough consideration and evaluation, your primary role is to focus on returning to and recovering at work as soon as possible. Make sure you:
- Notify your employer immediately after sustaining a work-related injury and maintain open communication
- Obtain a certificate of capacity and provide a copy to both your employer and insurer every 28 days, ensuring it is submitted before your current WorkCover certificate expires
- Attend all appointments and assessments arranged for you, and actively participate in your recovery process
What If I Want to Change My Doctor?
Sometimes, even after we’ve carefully evaluated all our options before committing, we still find out that our choice was not suitable.
If you’re thinking of changing your NTD, here are some things to keep in mind.
Changing your WorkCover doctor midway through your case can disrupt the continuity of your care. It requires rebuilding trust and familiarity, exchanging information, and establishing communication with your support team all over again. These factors can interrupt and delay your rehabilitation process, so do think carefully before you change your WorkCover doctor.
However, if you have a valid reason to change your doctor, it is your right to seek a more suitable healthcare provider. Just ensure that both your employer and workers compensation insurer are informed, and they will help you build a new support team to facilitate a smooth transition.
Find the Best WorkCover Doctors with AusRehab
When dealing with a WorkCover case, having the right medical support is crucial. AusRehab is here to connect you with top-rated WorkCover doctors across New South Wales, who specialise in workplace recovery and are experienced in handling WorkCover claims.
Our extensive network ensures you receive the best possible care, from initial consultation to full recovery. Contact AusRehab today and let us help you find the perfect WorkCover doctor for your needs. Your recovery, our priority.
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