Rehabilitation program or plan

After your first meeting with the workplace rehabilitation consultant, a rehabilitation program or a rehabilitation and return to work plan may be developed. Having a written action plan (that you are consulted about) means it is clear to everyone involved who is doing what to help you get back to work and normal life.

If you have any questions about your rehabilitation and return to work plan and what it means to you, talk to your workplace rehabilitation consultant or case manager.

If you would like to know more about rehabilitation, a plain English booklet, Rehabilitation: A guide for injured workers is available in 22 community languages at www.workcover.com or by calling 13 18 55.

Alternative work

Your injury or illness may prevent you from returning to your original job in the short term or the longer term. You may also have restrictions placed on the kind of tasks you are able to do. It is the role of your case manager and often a workplace rehabilitation consultant (in conjunction with you, your supervisor and your doctor) to identify suitable alternative duties in your workplace.

Independent medical examinations

Sometimes it is necessary to have an independent review of medical information to make sure the best steps are being taken to improve your chances of a recovery. Usually the request to attend an independent medical examination (IME) will come from your case manager – they
will arrange the appointment and let you know the details. You will need to bring copies of relevant tests – and you need to attend the appointment. If you can't attend for a good reason, we suggest that you give your case manager or the specialist 48 hours' notice of your cancellation.

Travel and overnight accommodation can be arranged with your case manager where necessary (eg, if you live in the country and need to travel to Adelaide for an appointment, or if you need to take a taxi). Talk to your case manager about what you may be entitled to.

The specialist who conducts the IME will send a copy of their report to your case manager, who will forward a copy to you within seven days. Your employer is also entitled to see a copy of the report if they ask for it. The information in the report is confidential. If you have any concerns about IMEs, talk to your case manager.