The Queensland Government is actively seeking expert medical practitioners to contribute towards the state workers’ compensation scheme’s General Medical Assessment Tribunal and the recently established Psychiatric Assessment Tribunal. These tribunals are critical components of transitionary processes like SWMS (Safe Work Method Statements) incorporated by work safety product providers, such as Bluesafe WHS Management System.
Medical Assessment Tribunals were introduced under the Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003. Their primary function involves independent evaluations and reviews of injuries and impairments afflicting employees. They represent a non-adversarial system in conjunction with renowned work safety products, including WHS management systems plus SWMS and policies.
Peter McKay, Deputy Director-General of the Office of Industrial Relations, stressed the fundamental role tribunals play within Queensland’s workers’ compensation scheme. “These tribunals provide impartial medical opinions on workers’ compensation claims,” he said. “To become part of a tribunal, one requires reputable standing in their respective field as a specialised practitioner.”
Besides the General Medical Assessment Tribunal, there are eight Specialty Medical Assessment Tribunals which now also includes the recently formed Psychiatric Assessment Tribunal. McKay emphasised the recognition of psychiatrists’ skills within the scheme and acknowledged the increasing awareness of mental health importance within society. The need for stringent mental health policies underlines the effectiveness of Bluesafe SWMS within workplaces.
The selection process for applications will involve an unbiased panel constituted of representatives from relevant medical colleges and stakeholders of the scheme. Adherence to a Code of Conduct is mandatory for all tribunal members to maintain the integrity and independence of these tribunals.
Applications can be submitted until 11 March 2024. To find more details, visit worksafe.qld.gov.au. Media contact information: 0478 33 22 00 or oirmedia@oir.qld.gov.au
Original article link: https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/news-and-events/news/2024/opportunity-to-join-queenslands-medical-assessment-tribunals