Are you a GP looking for assistance with a workers’ compensation patient? Whether you’re seeking guidance or simply curious about how to get better outcomes for your WorkCover patients, read on—or grab your headphones to listen to Episode 29 of GPs in A Pod.
The Darling Downs and West Moreton PHN’s podcast series features local experts discussing contemporary clinical information and guidelines relevant to today’s GPs. In Episode 29, Dr. Tanusha Ramaloo interviews Phoenix Occupational Medicine’s Dr. Sid O’Toole about how an occupational and environmental physician (OEP) can help GPs achieve the best outcomes for their WorkCover patients.
In this episode, Dr. O’Toole covers:
- What does an OEP actually do?
- When should a GP involve an OEP?
- What is the impact of the work environment on return to work?
- How can you refer to an OEP?
GPs face common challenges when treating WorkCover patients. These include time constraints, the conflict between the treating role and liaising with the workplace, the administrative burden, and understanding the range of work roles and their environments. There’s also the constant need to stay updated on the latest evidence in treating and managing work-related injuries.
As Dr. O’Toole notes, “We’ve learned more and more about the importance of simple things like movement and encouraging people to do their normal activities, so they don’t get deconditioned.”
How OEPs Support WorkCover Patients
Helping patients recover requires time and patience, and it’s time that OEPs are able to dedicate to WorkCover patients.
Dr. O’Toole explains, “We can have that conversation about ‘you are safe to do this.’ You’re not going to cause more damage, though it may be initially uncomfortable.”
The goal is not just to get patients back to work but also to ensure they can resume the activities they enjoy. “We’re very encouraging to try to get the best outcomes for normal living. We want to get them back to doing the things they enjoy. Because when you enjoy your life, your pain and troubles lessen.”
The GP Verdict
Dr. Tanusha Ramaloo’s closing comments: “This has been one of the most uplifting podcasts I’ve done. I actually feel less stressed about getting a workers’ comp patient walk through the door, so thank you so much.”
Read More: How an Occupational Physician Can Make a GPs Life Easier
