Termination of medical expenses < Back

The WorkCover legislation contains a specific provision which terminates an entitlement to medical and like expenses 52 weeks after the cessation of weekly payments of compensation. There is, however, a very important and wide exception to this provision.

This exception provides that medical treatment costs will not cease if a claimant:
  • Could not remain at work if the medical services were not provided;

  • Surgery is required; or

  • does not significantly deteriorate'.
This exception means, in effect, that if the treatment is important, it remains payable under the WorkCover legislation. The ability to claim under this provision continues, even if WorkCover have previously sent a notice terminating medical entitlements. If you require major treatment and your entitlements have previously been terminated, you should write to your WorkCover claims agent requesting approval for the treatment. If your request is rejected or not actioned, you should refer the matter to the Accident Compensation Conciliation Service.


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