Icare has announced the launch of its Medical Panel Trial, a pilot program designed to streamline treatment approvals for injured workers under the NSW workers’ compensation scheme. The initiative introduces an independent panel of medical providers to review and approve treatment plans more efficiently, aiming to reduce delays and improve recovery outcomes.
This week iCare launched a pilot Medical Panel Trial to test how an independent panel of providers could speed up treatment approvals for injured workers in NSW’s compensation scheme. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Chris Colquhoun noted current delays of up to six weeks not only frustrate workers but risk worsening injuries and hindering recovery
Dr. Colquhoun also said the aim of the program is to speed up the approval process to no more than 5 days and to gather evidence on early treatment intervention, and to assess the lasting beneficial impact this can have on quality of life and return to work outcomes.
The trial will operate within the following parameters:
- Receive between 12 and 20 referrals a day, 5 days a week
Use experienced medical experts, ranging from occupational health physicians and psychiatrists, to other sub-specialists providing advice to case managers. - Over time, icare aim to extend this support directly to Nominated Treating Doctors (GPs).
- The trial will run for 12 weeks, by which time icare will evaluate its value to injured workers.
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