Occupational Rehabilitation

Occupational rehabilitation is the process of returning injured workers to suitable employment. Occupational rehabilitation is not only the responsibility of employers and insurers, but there is a responsibility on injured workers to undertake or participate in rehabilitation programs or suitable alternative duties provided for them. The program is offered by physiotherapists, and treatment services may be provided at a rehabilitation clinic and/or at the work site.

Accredited rehabilitation providers are organisations accredited by WorkCover to offer specialised services to help injured workers to return to work.

Role of Accredited rehabilitation providers for Occupational Rehabilitation

1. Assess the requirement of the injured worker and the workplace requirements to develop a rehabilitation plan of action
2. Devise different health professionals, such as occupational therapists, physiotherapists, psychologists and rehabilitation counsellors.

What type of occupational rehabilitation services are approved by an agent for a worker depends on whether the return to work focus is to help them back to work with their injury employer or if that is not possible then returning them to work with a new employer.

Benefits of Occupational Rehabilitation Programs

A wide variety of people may benefit from occupational rehabilitation therapy, these may include people with

1. work-related injuries including lower back problems or repetitive strain injuries
2. physical, cognitive or psychological limitations following a stroke, brain injury or heart attack
3. rheumatoid and age-related conditions such as arthritis
4. neurodegenerative movement disorders such as multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Parkinson's disease
5. birth injuries, learning difficulties, or developmental disabilities
   mental health difficulties Alzheimer's, schizophrenia, ADHD and post-traumatic stress

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