A quick guide to icare (NSW) Workers’ Compensation – Information for workers

The NSW worker’s compensation system is designed to help you recover as quickly as possible from a work-related accident or sickness. This article will explain what to expect during your recuperation period. The insurer will assign you a claim number once your injury has been reported. This will be included in any correspondence regarding your claim.

Capacity Certificate

The certificate of capacity is the primary means of communication between your doctor and the rest of the world. The certificate explains the nature of your injury/illness, your job capacity, and any treatment you might need. It aids in planning your injury management and returns to work strategies.

Your Support Team

Your support team collaborates to ensure that you recover at work in a safe and long-term manner. Your support team consists of the following individuals:

• your case manager, who will be your main point of contact for any questions or problems you may have during your rehabilitation. The insurer for your company appoints your case manager. They’ll get in touch with you within three days of receiving notification of your injuries and help you with all parts of your claim.

• your doctor, who will examine, diagnose, and treat you. They’ll also finish your certificate of capacity, help you get back to work, and interact with the rest of your support team.

• your employer, who will appoint an individual to assist you in your return to work. This individual (commonly referred to as the return to work (RTW) coordinator) will peak with you and your case manager.

Other providers, such as a physiotherapist or psychologist, may be included in your support team, depending on your circumstances. Your insurer may hire a workplace rehabilitation provider (a company that helps employees recuperate at work) to assist you with this process. On the provider selection, you will be consulted. A case conference may be scheduled to aid your recovery and return to work. This is a gathering of some or all of your support staff (in person or over the phone).

Recovering at work

Your employer is responsible for finding you suitable work that will help you recover at work. You should take part in the search for career opportunities that are within your capabilities. Taking an active role in the planning process can help you recuperate at work more quickly, safely, and long-term.

• portions of your job that you were performing before your accident
• the same job, but with fewer hours
• different duties altogether
• duties at a different location
• a mix of some or all the above

Your ability to work will improve as you recuperate. By progressively raising your hours of work, lowering rest breaks, increasing work tempo, or introducing new tasks, you and your employer can gradually upgrade your suitable job possibilities. Talk to your boss and doctor about how they can best assist you in your rehabilitation.

If you are unable to return to your pre-injury position, your case manager and a workplace rehabilitation specialist will assist you in determining appropriate alternatives. Several benefits and programmes are also available to assist you in finding new work.

Your entitlements

Weekly payments

Weekly payments assist in covering lost wages and assisting with your return to work. Payments are calculated based on your average weekly wages before the injury. Your weekly payment entitlement may change depending on how many hours you work, how long you’ve been receiving weekly payments, and/or your work capability. Payments should begin within seven days of the insurer receiving notification of your injury if you have an entitlement.

Medical and rehabilitation expenses

Payments for a reasonably necessary ambulance, medical, and hospital services, as well as other treatments, are due to you. On your certificate of capacity, your doctor will provide any treatment suggestions. Depending on your circumstances, your eligibility for weekly compensation and medical expenses may fluctuate. This is something you should discuss with your case manager.

Other costs include:

You can file a claim for damaged artificial aids, spectacles, and clothing if your property has been ruined as a result of your work-related incident.

Your job is to concentrate on your recuperation, which includes making reasonable attempts to return to work. To aid your recuperation at work, you should actively participate in rehabilitation and assessments.

You must keep your certificate of capacity up to date and update it at least once every 28 days. To make the certificate valid, you must fill out the declaration (section 3) on it. If your circumstances change, you must contact your insurance because it may affect your earnings.

Scan our QR Code to connect!

Disclaimer

The information in this post is strictly for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. It is not intended to express specific opinions about specific cases. Before acting on any of the issues discussed in this post, seek additional advice. The information provided should not be relied on for any purpose other than to assist you to understand how Workers’ Compensation insurance works. It is for illustrative purposes only and My WorkCover Solutions Pty Ltd does not accept liability for any loss or damage suffered by any person resulting in any way from the use of or reliance on, the information provided. The information in this article is believed to be correct as of the date of publication. However, changes in the applicable laws may have an impact on the accuracy of the material. This article contains general information that is not tailored to any specific person’s situation. This publication may contain information that relates to the regulation of Workers’ Compensation insurance in your State or Territory. To ensure you comply with your legal obligations, we would recommend you refer to the appropriate legislation as currently in force in the State or Territory you conduct your business. You can find up-to-date legislation by visiting each state’s WorkCover Authority website, alternatively contact myWorkCover for updated information.