Can we help challenge a Queensland return-to-work decision?

In summary: If you’ve been injured at work, an insurer’s view that you’re fit to return when your doctor disagrees can leave you uncertain about work, income and treatment. In Queensland, WorkCover Queensland administers the workers’ compensation scheme. Maurice Blackburn is here to help you understand how the decision and your medical evidence fit together.

What does a disagreement about returning to work mean?

A return-to-work decision can turn on medical evidence, your capacity for particular duties, and the reasons the insurer gives. Your doctor’s certificate and clinical opinion are important material, but the insurer may also rely on other information. A dispute process can involve reviewing the decision, the evidence it relies on, and the pathway available under the scheme.

Which workers’ compensation lawyers can help in Queensland?

We handle workers’ compensation claims across Australia, except in New South Wales and South Australia. For a Queensland matter, we can review an insurer’s return-to-work decision and explain the relevant process. Our work injury claims information outlines the type of support we provide.

What information can clarify the decision?

Keep copies of information that explains your current capacity and the insurer’s reasoning, including:

• the insurer’s decision letter and return-to-work plan

• your current medical certificate and treating doctor’s notes

• reports from treating specialists or therapists

• details of your usual duties and any proposed suitable duties

• correspondence about appointments, work restrictions or changes to payments.

These documents can help us identify what the insurer has decided and whether further medical information is relevant.

Get in touch

Receiving a return-to-work decision that conflicts with your doctor’s advice can be difficult. We can review what the insurer has decided and explain the process that applies in Queensland. You can start with an online claim check, or call us on 1800 111 222 with the insurer’s decision letter and your current medical certificate in front of you.