10.12.4 Getting advice from an approved program provider

An assessment by a Driver Trained Occupational Therapist (OT) or other suitably qualified approved program provider is evidence for a delegate when determining the amount of compensation (if any) to be provided under the Scheme.

It is strongly recommended the professional providing the advice is accredited by their relevant state or territory motor vehicle authority to undertake driving assessments.

The Driver Trained OT or other suitably qualified program provider is asked to advise on:

• any necessary driving devices, or other modifications required to make the person’s vehicle safe to drive, or safe and reasonably comfortable to be transported in, at a minimum cost; and
• the ability of a person’s vehicle to be fitted with any necessary driving devices, or to be otherwise modified in a cost effective way; or
• the type of motor vehicle which would enable the person to drive safely, or be transported safely and reasonably comfortably, at minimum cost.

A delegate is required to consider all matters relevant to the application, including, but not limited to, advice from the Driver Trained OT or other suitably qualified approved program provider when making their determination.

An ‘approved program provider’ as defined by section 41(1) of the MRCA.  “Suitably qualified” means that besides a driver trained OT, a delegate may engage a professional who has the skills, expertise and experience to provide a written assessment that addresses the required criteria.

A Directory of approved program providers is provided on the Comcare website.