Australian general practitioners’ perspective on the role of the workplace Return-to-Work Coordinator
Joanna Bohatko-Naismith A C , Maya Guest A , Carole James A , Dimity Pond B and Darren A. Rivett A
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations
A School of Health Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
B School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
C Corresponding author. Email: joanna.bohatko-naismith@newcastle.edu.au
Australian Journal of Primary Health 24(6) 502-509 https://doi.org/10.1071/PY17084
Submitted: 14 June 2017 Accepted: 17 June 2018 Published: 3 October 2018
Abstract
General practitioners (GPs) play a key role in the return-to-work process, and yet their experiences working with workplace Return-to-Work Coordinators (RTWCs) have rarely been studied. The aim of this paper is to provide insights from the GP perspective about their experiences with workplace RTWCs and their preparedness for the role. GPs from Australian states and territories where legislation mandates workplaces employ a RTWC were requested to complete a questionnaire on their experiences with workplace RTWCs. Fifty GPs completed a questionnaire on the preparedness of RTWCs in relation to their role, with 58% (n = 29) indicating RTWCs require more training. A total of 78% (n = 39) of respondents considered RTWCs were important in assisting injured workers return to work, with 98% (n = 49) ranking trustworthiness, respectfulness and ethicalness as the most important or an important trait for a RTWC to possess. Interestingly, 40% (n = 20) of respondents themselves reported having no training in the return-to-work process. GPs acknowledge the importance of the workplace RTWC in the return-to-work process, and the results highlight the need for RTWCs to possess specific traits and undergo appropriate training for the facilitation of a successful return to work for injured workers.
Additional keywords: qualitative research, rehabilitation, workplace injury.
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