If you’ve sustained a work-related injury in Victoria, WorkSafe Victoria may cover the cost of physiotherapy to aid your recovery and facilitate a safe return to work. Understanding the process can help you access the care you need promptly.
What Is WorkSafe Victoria?
WorkSafe Victoria is the state’s statutory authority responsible for enforcing occupational health and safety laws and managing the workers’ compensation scheme. It provides support to workers injured on the job, including covering medical and rehabilitation expenses.
Eligibility for Physiotherapy Services
You may be eligible for WorkSafe-funded physiotherapy if:
- You sustained an injury arising out of or in the course of your employment in Victoria.
- You have lodged a workers’ compensation claim with WorkSafe Victoria.
- Your claim has been accepted, and you have a valid claim number.
Steps to Access Physiotherapy Services
- Report the Injury to Your Employer: Notify your employer about the injury as soon as possible. They are required to document the incident and may assist you in lodging a claim.
- Consult a General Practitioner (GP): Visit a GP to assess your injury. The doctor will provide you a Certificate of Capacity, which outlines your work capacity and any limitations. This certificate is essential for your claim and ongoing treatment.
- Lodge a WorkSafe Claim: Submit a workers’ compensation claim form to WorkSafe Victoria. Your employer can assist with this process. Once your claim is accepted, you’ll receive a claim number.
- Obtain a Referral for Physiotherapy: While a referral is not strictly required for physiotherapy services under WorkSafe, it’s advisable to have one from your GP to ensure coordinated care. The referral should detail the nature of your injury and the recommended physiotherapy treatment.
- Choose a WorkSafe-Registered Physiotherapist: Select a physiotherapist registered with WorkSafe Victoria. When booking your appointment, inform the clinic that your treatment is WorkSafe-related and provide your claim number.
- Commence Treatment: Provide your physiotherapist with your WorkSafe claim number and referral. The physiotherapist will assess your condition and develop a treatment plan aligned with the Clinical Framework for the Delivery of Health Services.
Important Points to Note
- Treatment Plans: Physiotherapists are required to submit a Physiotherapy Management Plan to the WorkSafe Agent by the fifth consultation. This plan outlines the treatment goals and expected outcomes.
- Approval for Extended Services: If treatment extends beyond the initial sessions or involves complex procedures, the physiotherapist may need to seek prior approval from WorkSafe.
- No Out-of-Pocket Expenses (No Gap Fees): Usually WorkSafe covers the reasonable costs of physiotherapy services provided by registered practitioners.
Need Help Getting Started?
Navigating the WorkSafe system can be complex. We have experience assisting patients with WorkSafe claims and can guide you through the process. Our goal is to help you to start your recovery as early as possible and achieve better treatment outcomes.
Contact us today to start your recovery or to ask any questions regarding lodging a WorkSafe claim!
