The role of an approved medical specialist

The role of an approved medical specialist is different to a medical practitioner, as these specialists are trained to evaluate permanent impairment using the WorkCover WA Guides for the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment. These publications can be found on the right hand panel.

While treatment continues to be provided by the worker’s treating medical practitioner, only medical practitioners registered as approved medical specialists can undertake impairment assessments. These form the basis for access to certain workers' compensation entitlements by injured workers.

Click here to search the register of approved medical specialists

Where there is conflicting medical opinion between doctors involved in a claim, WorkCover WA may refer questions to a medical assessment panel for determination. The panel’s determination is binding on all parties. Legal representation is not permitted as the panel determines medical questions only.

For more general information about the dispute resolution process click on the link to the Dispute Resolution channel on the right panel.


Click here for information about training in the evaluation of permanent impairment

*New* WorkCover WA Guides - 2nd Edition

The 2nd Edition of the WorkCover WA Guides for the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment comes into effect on Monday 26 November 2007. WorkCover WA wishes to advise our stakeholders that the 2nd edition of the Guides contains some changes that will affect the work practices of approved medical specialists from 26 November 2007.

The 1st edition will no longer apply from 26 November 2007, so all assessments for injuries occurring after 14 November 2005 must be made in accordance with the 2nd Edition.

Click here for a copy of the WorkCover WA Guides for the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment, 2nd Edition

Click here for a fact sheet outlining changes to the 2nd Edition of the WorkCover WA Guides.

Medi Link Newsletter

Medi Link is a newsletter produced by WorkCover WA for Approved Medical Specialists (AMS).

The newsletter aims to educate, promote, inform and connect AMS involved in the workers' compensation scheme and provide enhanced support in achieving consistency across all permanent impairment assessments.

WorkCover WA is committee to assisting AMS to better understand the legal requirements of the impairment assessment process and practice, and Medi Link is just one mechanism used to facilitate this.

Winter Edition 2007

Winter Edition 2008

If you have any suggestions for future items in the newsletter, please contact the Corporate Relations Branch