Frequently Asked Questions about Workers Compensation

The University of Adelaide is an Exempt Employer under the Workers Compensation legislation and operates as a 'self-insurer'. The Claims Manager manages all the University's workers compensation claims and Rehabilitation Services are provided through the OH&S Unit.

How do I lodge a claim for workers compensation?

When lodging a claim for workers compensation, a Claim Form must be completed, signed and returned to Workers Compensation, Human Resources, together with an accompanying Workcover Medical Certificate and any other relevant documentation. Please contact your Manager if you require a Claim Form or assistance to lodge a claim for workers compensation.

Why do I need a Workcover Medical Certificate from my doctor?

This is the documentation our Workers Compensation Claims Manager requires in order to support your claim and your entitlement to ongoing workers compensation benefits for:

• Any period of time off work your doctor believes is appropriate for your recovery.
• Any course of treatment your doctor thinks is appropriate for your recovery (eg physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, pharmaceutical, surgery, rehabilitation etc.)

I have to travel to attend therapy, medical appointments, etc in order to obtain treatment for my injury/illness. Are travel expenses compensable under workers compensation?

Yes, you should keep a written record identifying the dates on which you travel, where you travelled from and to and how far you travelled. Each travel claim may require evidence of attendance at the appointment, usually in the form of a medical account or medical certificate.

My doctor sent an account to the University, but it has not been paid. Why?

You may not have lodged a workers compensation claim or the Claims Manager may still be determining liability for your claim. The University itself is not able to process payments for medical accounts received for workers compensation. Payment of these accounts are made by the Claims Manager after accepting liability for a claim.

I am not happy with my doctor's advice. What should I do?

Initially, you should talk to your doctor and express your concerns. If you do not feel comfortable with this approach your Health, Safety and Wellbeing Specialist can, with your permission, contact your doctor to try and resolve any problems. If you are not happy with your doctor's advice and treatment program, you have the right to choose another treating doctor.

I have an accepted workers compensation claim, but my doctor asked me to pay the account. What do I do now?

All accounts, paid or unpaid, should be forwarded to Workers' Compensation, Human Resources. If you have paid the account, the claims manager will reimburse you.

I have been cleared to work full hours, but I still need to attend therapy, when should I attend the appointments?

There is an expectation that whenever possible, appointments should be made for times outside of working hours. However if this is not possible, you and your supervisor should discuss the matter and determine a mutually suitable arrangement. For example, starting work a little later or finishing a little earlier when the session is within working hours. If your course of treatment could last some weeks, sessions can be scheduled in advance, ensuring appropriate times.

What do I do if I disagree with the Claims Manager's decision to reject my workers compensation claim?

You may contact the Workers Compensation Tribunal. This organisation provides workers, employers and workers compensation claims manager with a service that facilitates the resolution of workers compensation disputes by involving all parties in an informal process to achieve a fair agreement. The appeal process is called 'applying for a review' of a workers' compensation decision. The Claims Manager, your Health, Safety and Wellbeing Specialist or your Union can assist you with this process.

I do not like the way the Claims Manager is managing my claim. Can I choose another claims manager?

No. You should, however, discuss your concerns with the Manager, OH&S Unit. Your feedback is one of the ways in which the University can monitor the Claims Manager's performance.

Who can I contact if I have any other questions?

Your contacts are: