Understanding the current state of worker’s compensation Australia and Workcover claims helps businesses prioritise safety and refine prevention strategies relevant to their workplace.

This article investigates key statistics relating to high-risk industries and common injuries, workers’ compensation claims in Australia, and emerging trends and challenges for organisations.

Key Australian Statistics For Workplace Injuries

Workplace injuries and illnesses remain a reality across all professions, and it’s widely agreed there are still too many serious workplace injuries, fatalities and illnesses. The impact extends beyond the individual, affecting families and the broader community.

Out of 14.1 million Australians who worked in the 2021-22 period, approximately 3.5% (or 497,300 people) reported an illness or injury at work. The data is affected by COVID-19’s impact on economic activity over the period, but it’s still a positive trend from previous years (4.2% in 2017-18 and 6.4% in 2005-06). More good news is that workplace fatalities have been steadily declining since 2003.

Key Data Snapshot

• Over ten years, more than 1,850 workplace injury fatalities occurred in Australia.
• Over 1,140,000 workers have made severe workers’ compensation claims (lasting over a week).
• This translates to roughly 1 in 12 workers experiencing a severe injury at work.

Workers’ Compensation Claims: Frequency, Duration, and Costs

Worksafe Australia and the Australian Bureau of Statistics workplace injury data reveal from 2021-2022, 497,300 people had a work-related injury or illness (3.5% of people who worked at some time during the year). The most common cause of injury is lifting, pushing, pulling or bending (24%). Additionally:

• 66% had time off as a result of the injury or illness.
• 31% received workers’ compensation for the injury or illness.

The median time lost for a severe claim in Australia is around seven working weeks, and the average compensation paid for a serious claim in 2020-21 was $15,100.

Australia’s Riskiest Industries and The Most Common Injuries

The most high-risk industries

• Agriculture, forestry and fishing work with machinery, environmental hazards, and animal exposure
• Transport, postal and warehousing jobs involving driving and lifting 
• Construction workers at heights and using heavy machinery 
• Healthcare and social assistance can face injuries from patient handling
• Manufacturing, where operating machinery, chemical exposure, and repetitive tasks cause injuries.

Most common injury types and causes

• Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) caused by repetitive tasks, awkward postures, and heavy lifting
• Slips, trips, and falls are seemingly minor incidents that can become serious, especially in high-risk environments
• Injuries from falling objects, machinery, tools and equipment.
• Psychological injuries through stress, fatigue, and violence can all contribute to mental health-related issues.

Emerging Trends Shaping Workplaces

Increasing remote and hybrid work arrangements means workplaces must ensure measures are in place for staff to prevent injuries at home while working.

Mental health claims are on the rise (13% of serious claims in 2020-21), prompting regulators to emphasise psychological safety in workplaces. 

Artificial Intelligence and automation over the last several decades have enhanced working conditions and production efficiency. However, work-related musculoskeletal conditions remain common. State and federal governments constantly review and revise workers’ compensation schemes. Organisations need to stay up-to-date on these changes to ensure compliance.

Partnering With You For Worker’s Compensation Claim Success

With access to a network of medical experts and our team of in-house professionals in work-related injuries, learn more about how Red Health provides legal and insurance specialists an easier, friendlier medico-legal experience. 

The post Australian Workplace Injuries and Workers Compensation Claims for 2023 appeared first on Red Health.

Several factors influence an IME report delivery timelines, and it can be one of the most significant challenges for claims managers and lawyers working to tight deadlines. 

Delivery timeframes greatly depend on:

• Case complexity
• Independent Medical Examiner availability
• Examinee availability and location
• Timely submission of medical records and relevant information
• Communication between the parties involved
• Adequate medical records, including investigations and results

We thought it would be helpful to share three real-life examples that show insights into the IME process and all the things that can influence IME report delivery turnaround times.

Example 1 – A Complex Personal Injury Case

A Personal Injury Lawyer required that an independent medical examination (IME) be performed on their client to determine the nature and severity of multiple injuries they sustained in a car accident, and what long-term impact they would have on their capacity to live and work in the future. 

The IME was promptly scheduled, and the examination was completed within two weeks. The medical expert was unable to calculate the degree of permanent impairment relating to the injuries sustained as pathology, and specialised radiological investigations were not available, and in fact, no testing had ever been performed. Red Health liaised with the lawyer and the examinee underwent the required testing at the first available time which resulted in a three week delay. The delivery of the final report took approximately five weeks.

To ensure that all of the essential information was acquired as quickly as possible, Red Health supported the lawyer and examinee with respect to identifying the type of testing required and the best approach to obtaining the referral forms which was aimed at avoiding additional costs for the examinee. Red Health maintained communication with the medical expert so that when the results were available they could do the final touches of their medico-legal report. 

Given the nature of this case, a comprehensive and accurate report was received in a reasonable timeframe, given the need to obtain further information to proceed. However, it could have been resolved quicker if a strategic review of the case had been completed by the Medico-Legal provider from the start – something that Red Health proudly offers.

Example 2 – A Swift Workers’ Compensation Claim Resolution

A organisation needed to assess an injured worker’s capacity to return to regular work duties in accordance with WHS guidelines. The appointment for the Independent Medical Examination was scheduled one week following the request. The medical brief included records from the workers treating doctors and up to date radiological investigations. The objective to the IME was focused around whether the worker could return to work and safely perform the inherent requirements of their role at pre-injury hours and if there were any limitations or restrictions in performing their duties.

Due to the uncomplicated nature of the case and the early submission of the medical brief, the independent medical examiner was able to dictate their draft report on the appointment day and the necessary quality assurance reviews were completed by the medical examiner and Red Health’s in-house QA team in a timely manner. This report was issued to the client within 6 working days.

The streamlined communication between the involved parties, including the employer, examinee, examiner and Red Health, allowed for a fast report delivery and worker’s compensation claim resolution.

Example 3 – A Permanent Disability Insurance Case

An insurance agency needed to determine the level of injury, and its long-term impact, in a disability claim. In light of the complexity of the case and the intricate nature of the claim, multiple IMEs were required, and the selection of experts was crucial. It took several weeks to identify the right medical and allied health professionals and secure bookings with them in the best order.

Recognising the need for a comprehensive assessment to be made, a range of assessment bookings were made across specialities, including neurology, psychiatry and with an occupational therapist.

After the assessments were completed, the practitioners completed their reports and received the report of the previous practitioner so they could draw upon relevant information to help them provide their opinion.  Red Health supported the quality assurance process and ensured the insurance agency was informed each step of the way until the reports were finalised and issued to the client.

In total, the entire process took approximately nine weeks to conclude.

This approach ensured a robust and holistic assessment outcome for the examinee, which, in turn, allowed the insurance agency to determine the appropriate level of funding for the examinee which considered multiple practitioners from different specialities. This approach was valued by the client as it delivered on clarity and reduced timeframes which was required given the complexity of the disabilities.

What makes an effective IME process?

• Clear communication between the examinee, referring client, examiner, and IME provider
• Taking the time to determine a planned approach, particularly with complex matters which require multiple opinions
• Understanding what medical information is required and having it available prior to the appointment 
• Securing the best suited medical expert rather than the next available appointment
• Comprehensive assessment and information gathering
• Liaising with your IME provider to seek guidance and support
• Unbiased opinion
• Prompt report completion

Make an appointment with the Red Health team today for a strategic case review, and our staff will show you the way from the beginning, saving you time, money and headaches!

Disclaimer: The timeline examples provided in this blog are intended for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as predictive of future IME delivery timelines. Actual delivery times may vary depending on numerous factors, including case complexity, Independent Medical Examiner availability, examinee availability, timely submission of medical records and relevant information. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on your unique matter, please reach out to your Red Health case manager.

The post IME Report Delivery: Real-Life Examples of Varied Timelines appeared first on Red Health.

Independent Medical Assessments can be stressful and overwhelming for examinees, especially if they are unsure about what to expect from the process. Examinees commonly ask if someone can attend their IME with them. Of course, it is possible, but let’s look at all the considerations.

IME Provider Policies and Guidelines

Whether you can bring a support person depends on the policies and guidelines of the IME provider. If the provider allows support people, it may be permitted for specific parts or all of the appointments and this can differ with each medical expert. In contrast, some IME providers will ask that support people remain in the waiting room. The type of Independent Medical Assessment will also determine whether having a support person is suitable.

Most providers will have information about their policies and guidelines on their website or through their customer service department. Lawyers and case managers should advise on whether a person can and should bring a companion to their IME appointment for the medico-legal report and, if so, what the provider’s policies and guidelines are. If they aren’t sure, then steps to check with the provider is best practice.

Benefits of having a support person

We want everyone to get the most out of the IME appointment, and having someone there can help an examinee feel more confident and collected if they are nervous, particularly if they have not undergone this type of assessment before. Emotional support through words of encouragement or just having the physical presence of someone trusted can assist anxious examinees.

In some cases, a support person role may involve helping examinees understand the questions to ensure they can answer everything and clarify any information. Remembering their medical history, information about medications and specific dates about their condition can be difficult, especially when feeling nervous or stressed. While they cannot answer questions, a support person can help them remember facts and information. They can also assist with the completion of forms which are often required.

Considerations for Supporting People at Independent Medical Examinations

Independent Medical Examinations are a specialised appointment which differs to those with treating practitioners. The duration of appointment can range from 45 minutes to 8 hours in some specialties and the medical examiner is required to undertake testing and ask questions about the examinees personal circumstances in order for them to meet the report requirements. 

It is important to be aware that during certain parts of the appointment, there may be information that the examinee prefers their support person didn’t know or questions they would rather not answer in their presence.

A support person may be a friend or relative, or someone that understands your needs and can help ensure you have adequate support along your IME journey.

When Considering A Support Person for Your Independent Medical Examination:

• Choose someone trusted and who knows you well.
• Reach out to the party who organised the appointment and seek information about the IME process so you know what to expect.
• Let the support person know what kind of support is needed.
• Understand the IME provider and their policies and guidelines 
• Inform the provider if a support person will be attending in advance.
• Be aware that a support person may need to remain in the waiting area or only invited into the IME for a specific period of time.

Not sure if you should bring a support person to your Independent Medical Assessment appointment? In that case, it is always best to talk to your lawyer or case manager and they can get in touch with us.

For more information, get in touch with our team today!

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