Checking Progress

The RTWP should list a number of interim goals the employee gradually works towards achieving prior to reaching the final goal of the RTWP.  All RTWPs must provide some indication of what the final goal will be.

Both the claims manager and case manager can continue to check progress on the RTWP by monitoring the interim goal dates to see how the employee is progressing.

Claims manager checks will be dictated by diaries from PRACSYS that link into the RTWP and periodically appear (monthly, two monthly, at the final goal date).  If goals are not being achieved by the expected date, or soon after, this will need to be investigated.

Progress on the RTWP should be followed up by regular written reports from the rehabilitation provider to the case manager. Comcare should also receive a copy of these reports.

This will assist claims managers to know how the RTWP is proceeding, and will indicate if there are problems which require further or alternative action.

RTWP amendments apply changes to the original RTWP's details.  This may be because the original RTWP underestimated cost or duration, or the rehabilitation provider may wish to add or alter services and graduated return to work details.

However, frequent or significant changes may mean the claims manager should become involved.

If the final vocational goal of a RTWP changes, a new RTWP must be completed and the old RTWP closed.  An amendment is not sufficient.

Unfortunately, if amendments are continually submitted, with costs and RTWP durations being constantly increased, the purpose of reducing overall claim costs is defeated.

Claims managers must monitor this process and should discuss any concerns with the case manager.

As with the initial RTWP, all parties should agree to the contents of amendments - simply because amendments are addendums to the original.