Approved medical specialists’ training gets tick of approval

Over a dozen doctors including GP’s, psychiatrists, orthopaedic surgeons and occupational physicians attended the WorkCover WA approved medical specialists (AMS) training session which took place on Thursday 20 September.

The training, which covered the WorkCover WA Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment, was also billed as a refresher course for current approved medical specialists wanting to refresh their understanding in the area of permanent impairment assessment.

The training session was conducted by Dr Alan Home, a certified independent medical examiner of the American Board of Independent Medical Examiners.

Ruth Balding, WorkCover WA, said feedback from the event indicated that the workshop was valued highly by participants.

“From the evaluation forms, participants felt the question and answer session was very stimulating, and that Dr Home’s presentation was highly relevant and practical.

“Doctors seeking accreditation as approved medical specialists said they benefited from meeting and networking with the current AMS who attended.”

“Feedback from current AMS was very positive, indicating the refresher was extremely useful and worthwhile. It helped maintain their familiarity with the guidelines and cleared up confusing aspects. The training session provided an opportunity for them to clarify the requirements for completing the reports.”

WorkCover WA recognises the value of providing a forum for the AMS to refresh their knowledge, obtain expert advice and network with colleagues and WorkCover WA will investigate the feasibility of continuing to hold such forums in the future.

Feedback highlighted the special requirements of psychiatrists as AMS. To address this, planning is currently underway to provide specialised training for psychiatrists.