COVID-19 Notice for Whole Person Impairment Assessors

Following the announcement of the lifting of restrictions on Monday 26 July 2021 by the South Australian Premier, Steven Marshall, ReturnToWorkSA now supports the resumption of Whole Person Impairment assessments as of Wednesday 28 July 2021.

Recommencement of referrals is subject to assessors:

  • being available and willing to carry out whole person impairment assessments;
  • observing the necessary infection control requirements and risk mitigation strategies; and
  • using appropriate personal protective equipment during physical examinations.

It should be noted that, from 1 December 2020, all people in health care settings have been required to wear a mask while in the physical presence of other people. This includes the assessor, the administrative staff and the patient.

While ReturnToWorkSA and our claims agents will take every precaution in referring workers for assessment, assessors should continue to ensure workers are appropriately screened before commencing any physical assessment as part of your practice’s standard risk management process. Clearly no worker or assessor may be compelled to undergo or conduct a permanent impairment assessment. Workers who, for personal reasons, do not wish to proceed with an assessment of their permanent impairment at this time will suffer no adverse claim consequences. The decision to proceed will be completely up to them.

For assessors interstate who continue to be impacted by travel restrictions, please note that ReturnToWorkSA does not support the assessment of physical injuries via telehealth at this time.

If you have any questions, please contact the Impairment Assessment Team.