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The injury management and return to work processes require an employer, injured worker and medical practitioner (the key parties) to be involved in decision making. Ongoing communication is essential for a successful outcome.
| REMEMBER - if an injury occurs in the workplace, make sure: |
- the worker immediately seeks first aid;
- the incident or accident is reported as soon as possible;
- the worker visits a doctor (of their own choice) and obtains a First Medical Certificate; and
- the worker fills in a Worker’s Compensation Claim Form 2B (available from the employer, their insurer or WorkCover WA).
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Injury management starts immediately following an injury. The employer, injured worker and medical practitioner (the key parties) work together to either keep the injured worker at work, or develop an appropriate return to work program. This may involve:
- Consultation amongst the three key parties consult to ensure the worker recovers and achieves either maintenance in, or return to, appropriate duties. All three parties work out what needs to be done to help keep the injured worker at work - for example: alternate or different duties that are meaningful to both the worker and the employer; modify existing duties; obtaining different equipment to assist the worker.
- If an injured worker is unable to remain at work, the employer, medical practitioner and worker develop a plan on how to help the worker return to work - for example: reduced hours, alternate or different duties (as mentioned).
- In most cases, the key parties can develop and implement the return to work program. However, there may be circumstances when services from an approved vocational rehabilitation provider may assist.
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