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Dec 3, 2024 • 5 min read
What is a Certificate of Capacity?
Written by: Eisabess Chee
If you’ve been injured at work or are dealing with a work-related illness, you might hear about something called a ‘certificate of capacity’. It’s an important document in workers compensation claims, but what does it mean, and why do you need it? In this blog post, we’ll break it down in simple terms so you can understand what it’s all about and how to use it.
What Does ‘Certificate of Capacity’ Mean?
A certificate of capacity (COC) is a medical certificate that outlines your injury or illness, your ability to work, and the treatments needed for your recovery. It’s more than just a document – it’s a communication tool that helps everyone involved in your recovery, including your employer, insurer, and medical practitioners, stay on the same page.
This certificate plays a key role in workers comp claims. It helps the insurer decide your entitlement to compensation and guides the process of planning your recovery, rehabilitation, and return to work.
Who Can Issue a Certificate of Capacity?
The first certificate of capacity must be completed by a legally qualified medical practitioner, such as your treating doctor or specialist. They are responsible for assessing your overall health needs and determining your work capacity.
For follow-up certificates, certain SIRA-approved physiotherapists or psychologists can issue them in specific circumstances if the injuries fall within their area of expertise.
However, if your situation involves multiple injuries or complexities, you may be referred back to your primary doctor for an overall assessment.
How Long Can a Certificate of Capacity Last?
Typically, a certificate of capacity is valid for up to 28 days, unless your medical practitioner provides special reasons for extending it.
It’s important to keep your COC current to ensure there are no interruptions in your workers compensation benefits or return to work planning.
Can a Certificate of Capacity Be Backdated?
Yes, but only under certain conditions. A medical practitioner can certify a period of incapacity that occurred before the date of the examination, as long as it’s reasonable.
However, certificates cannot be backdated more than 90 days from the date they are issued.
How a Certificate of Capacity Helps
A certificate of capacity is useful for everyone involved in your recovery, including yourself:
For You (Injured or Ill Workers)
- To understand the nature of your injury or illness.
- To discuss your work capacity and limitations with your doctor.
- To plan a safe return to work or modifications to your usual duties.
For Employers
- To get clear guidance on your work capabilities.
- To plan for adjustments or suitable duties to support your recovery and return to work.
For Medical Practitioners
- To safely integrate work into your recovery plan.
- To communicate clearly with employers and insurers about what you can and can’t do.
For Insurers
- To make informed decisions about your compensation entitlements.
- To approve necessary medical treatments.
How to Complete a Certificate of Capacity
Information Required on the Certificate
The COC needs to include:
- Your personal details (name, contact info)
- A precise diagnosis of your injury or illness
- The cause of your condition
- The date of examination
- Your work capacity and any functional limitations
- Unfit-for-work dates
- Recommended treatment
- Review date
- Your medical practitioner’s contact details and signature
Second and Subsequent Certificates of Capacity
After the first certificate, follow-up certificates can be issued by SIRA-approved physiotherapists or psychologists for specific injuries. If there’s any overlap between certificates, the most recent certificate will take precedence.
For more information, visit SIRA or find a copy of the COC form here.
FAQs About Certificate of Capacity
1. Why is a certificate of capacity important?
It ensures clear communication between you, your doctor, your employer, and the insurer, helping you recover and return to work safely.
2. What happens if I don’t have a current certificate?
Without a valid COC, your workers compensation claim may be delayed or disrupted.
3. Can I change my treating doctor?
Yes, if you move or need a new doctor, they can issue a certificate of capacity as long as they are registered with AHPRA and agree to take responsibility for your treatment.
When choosing your treating doctor, you should consider their ability to service you over a substantial length of time.
How Does AusRehab Help With Certificates of Capacity?
A certificate of capacity is a key step in your workers comp journey. By understanding its purpose and how it works, you can take control of your recovery and return to work with the right support.
AusRehab works closely with medical practitioners, employers, and insurers to ensure COCs are completed correctly, and that recovery and return to work (RTW) plans align with the worker’s needs.
If you need help navigating the process, reach out to AusRehab – we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
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Eisabess Chee is a seasoned writer with over 8 years of diverse experience in education, journalism and marketing. At AusRehab, she oversees content creation through research, writing, editing, and the crafting of resources that tackle workers compensation and workplace injury. Eisabess also curates the AusRehab newsletter, ensuring it’s packed with valuable and well-researched insights.
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