How do we define "reasonable" treatment?

Challenging issues regarding the definition of “reasonable” treatment often arise. How is that two people with the same injury can have completely different surgical interventions, management programs and recovery timeframes?

How can it be that one is back at work, on full duties with no further treatment, within three months yet the other remains totally incapacitated two years later, receiving weekly physiotherapy treatment, a gym strengthening program, weekly massage and monthly occupational physician visits? Is this treatment “reasonable” at this stage of their rehabilitation program? How can we challenge this with the treating parties?

The definition of “reasonable” is as broad as the many factors that can vary between injured persons. Possessing a greater understanding of these factors, matched with a sound knowledge of medical terminology and injury management provides case managers with the ability to critically review a claimant’s medical management program. Such knowledge enables them to challenge the appropriateness of ongoing treatments, defining if they truly are “reasonable” for each individual claimant.

These factors are explored in detail during the On Balance Understanding Musculoskeletal Injuries course. Participants are given a comprehensive overview of medical terminology and the exploration of nearly thirty common injuries of the back, shoulders, arms, knees and legs. Each injury type is explained with relevant investigations and surgical interventions. Case studies and activities to define “reasonable” treatment options and recovery timeframes are also investigated.

Recent feedback from participants attending this course include -

"An outstanding day. Thoroughly relevant and enjoyable. Best course I’ve ever been to.” - Manager, Healthcare Industry

“Interesting and inspiring. Provided all of the information I came hoping to gain, and more. 12/10! “ - HR Manager, Commonwealth Government Department

“A course of great value that’s worth recommending. Great resources to use every day in the workplace. I’ll be contacting you to run this course with my colleagues In-House.” - Solicitor, Law Firm.

”Why wasn’t this course around when I started Case Management?!! It has all of the specific details that Case Managers and Rehabilitation (Providers) need to really understand the medical challenges they deal with. Thanks for a great, really useful course.” - Injury Manager, Insurance Agent

These courses are run in each state, with many organisations choosing to conduct them in-house. When running On Balance training forums in-house, mlcoa have scope to be flexible with delivery timeframes to ensure minimal disruption to your business operations. Each course can be tailored to meet your specific workplace needs by incorporating industry specific case studies, focusing on the common injuries and issues your team members manage.

For more information, contact the National Training Manager – Jayne Gowland, (08) 8212 9119 or gowlandj@mlcoa.com.au or your mlcoa State Manager.