How to use a rehabilitation service provider
After talking with the worker and the treating doctor, the
rehabilitation and return to work coordinator (RRTWC) may decide
that a rehabilitation service provider is needed to help develop
and monitor a suitable duties program (SDP) at the workplace.
The SDP will include suitable work duties and
restrictions to return the worker to work within their
capacity. The worker, treating doctor and employer should
negotiate, develop and implement the program together. The purpose
of the program is to:
- increase work tolerance
- increase capacity to perform jobs with specific physical
demands
- improve physical endurance
- normalise attendance patterns and work behaviours.
To minimise the risk of re-injury or aggravation and to help the
employer upgrade and review the program, the rehabilitation
service provider may be required at the workplace to assess the
worker's progress.
Developing an appropriate program using suitable duties is
a major component of effective workplace rehabilitation.
Functional capacity evaluations (FCE), workplace assessments and
vocational assessments are frequently used by the
rehabilitation service provider to develop and monitor a suitable
duties program.
You need approval from your insurer before you engage
a rehabilitation service provider.
Your RRTWC should discuss other services with your insurer's
case manager.