The Victorian ombudsman has taken it upon herself to have an enquiry into the use of Independent medical examiners by WorkCover agents. We have had significant concerns about potential outcomes. In particular one of our members has been targeted by the ombudsman with the possibility of a recommendation that he no longer see WorkCover claimants. In an interesting denial of natural justice he has had no opportunity so far to respond to allegations made by a disgruntled claimant. In general however the focus of the investigation is on the agents rather than on Independent medical examiners. Nevertheless the Victorian Branch of the faculty of forensic psychiatry thought it would be useful to make a submission to the Ombudsman explaining our obligations including the College code of ethics, guidelines for medicolegal examinations, the WorkCover handbook for medicolegal assessment and legal requirements of expert witnesses. You can see a copy of the submission here
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