Monash University partners with WorkCover Queensland to uncover high risk claim insights
Researchers at Monash University are partnering with WorkCover Queensland to design and test an evidence-based approach to identifying and supporting injured workers who are at risk of poor return to work outcomes and/or pursuing common law against their employer.
The research project will investigate the barriers and enablers of return to work, the factors influencing an injured worker’s reasons for suing their employer and innovative claim management strategies to mitigate these risks.
Monash will collaborate with WorkCover’s people and external stakeholders, including medical and allied health providers, during the nine-month project to develop and trial the approach.
Monash has assembled an expert group of work and health researchers, headed by Professor Alex Collie, an internationally recognised researcher in occupational health and workplace rehabilitation. This project will be led by Dr Ross Iles, a senior researcher in the new group.
“Workplace injury has huge impact on workers, families and the health system,” Professor Alex Collie said.
“Our group brings capability in occupational and public health to this collaborative project, and we look forward to creating and testing practical solutions that we expect to reduce this community burden.”
WorkCover Chief Executive Officer, Bruce Watson said the Monash University partnership creates a strong fusion between industry and research that will realise significant insights and benefits for WorkCover and its customers.
“There are many hidden factors which can influence an injured worker’s prolonged time off work and ultimately their decision to pursue a common law claim against their employer,” Mr Watson said.
“WorkCover is committed to understanding these factors and supporting workers and employers early in the ‘no fault’ statutory claim process to ensure an improved experience with better long term outcomes for our customers.
“By making a positive difference early, we can deliver excellent return to work outcomes for workers at the lowest cost to Queensland employers.
“Monash’s proven track record in research and innovation in insurance, injury management and rehabilitation will further enhance WorkCover’s in-house capabilities and provide valuable claim intervention insights,” Mr Watson said
“Learnings from this research project will be shared with WorkCover’s customers, stakeholders and other workers’ compensation schemes to continually improve how workers and employers are supported after their injury.”