Managing workplace injuries

The primary treating medical practitioner is the medical provider chosen by an injured worker to participate in the injury management process. It is usually the injured worker's own general practitioner

A medical practitioner cannot be an injured worker's primary treating medical practitioner unless they are accredited by the WorkCover Tasmania Board.

For a worker to make a valid claim for compensation, they must have a medical certificate issued by an accredited medical practitioner.

The primary treating medical practitioner performs a central role in the recovery and medical management of an injured worker. They:

• have continuing contact with the injured worker throughout their injury management and return to work
• provide diagnosis, treatment and guidance to the injured worker
• provide encouragement to ensure everyone remains focussed on what the injured worker can do
• clearly communicate any specific work restrictions to the employer, so the employer can find suitable alternative duties for the injured worker
• regularly review the injured worker 's duties and work capacity to ensure their return to work is safe and durable

The following excerpt covers relevant sections of the workers compensation legislation.
The following guide explains the role of the primary treating medical practitioner.

For further information or assistance

For further information regarding any of the listed documents above or if you have difficulties downloading any document, please contact the WorkCover Communications Manager: Email: workcover@justice.tas.gov.au

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