How do workplace rehab provider referrals work?

Referrals to work rehab providers can be made by the insurer, the employer, or the NTD, but workers have the right to request a change.

A workplace rehabilitation provider may receive referrals from the insurer, the nominated treating doctor (NTD), the employer, or the injured worker. Although employers or insurers typically decide the provider, the worker must be consulted in the process.

When to Make Referrals to a Workplace Rehab Provider

If you're in a position to refer injured workers to a workplace rehabilitation provider, consider doing so when the following situations arise:

• Assisting the injured worker in transitioning back to their pre-injury role or identifying alternative duties suited to their capacity
• Developing suitable work tasks to meet employer's legal obligations and support recovery
• Coordinating rehab strategies to ensure the worker’s tasks are safe and appropriate
• Providing support with retraining, equipment adjustments, or workplace modifications
• Enhancing communication within the support team for a sustainable return to work
• Navigating complex cases, especially those involving serious injuries or barriers affecting return-to-work progress

Key Information to Include

At the point of referral, both the injured worker and their employer should be provided with information about:

• The workplace rehabilitation provider's contact details
• When the provider is expected to make contact
• The provider's role in the workers compensation case, including the support they can or are expected to provide for the injured worker's return to work
• Details about why this referral has been made
• The worker's right to request a change of provider

Injured workers have the right to choose, and even change, workplace rehab providers if necessary. No injured worker should feel pressured to appoint a provider they don't feel comfortable with.