The concerns and issues of injured workers in relation to claims/injury management and rehabilitation: the need for new operational frameworks.

Abstract

This paper discusses some of the practical considerations from the injured workers' point of view that need to be taken into account when they are registered as claimants for Workers' Compensation. Workers reported a range of impediments experienced in the return to work process that created considerable stress and concern. These included the erratic payment of economic benefits, indifferent case managers, the management of the stigma associated with a registered WorkCover claim, a general lack of information, disrespectful communication from service providers, and a suspicious response to their injury by the employer, co-workers and some professional service providers. On this basis some suggestions can be made for improvements to practice.