SOP Bulletin No. 60

4 — th Floor AMP Place, 10 Eagle St Brisbane  3 — rd Floor Blackburn House, 199 Grenfell St Adelaide

Intranet site:  http://intranet/nat/comp/dp/Nop/dsu/dsudefault.htm

7 June 2002

THE FOLLOWING RMA SOPS ARE TO BE GAZETTED ON 12 June, 2002

IMPORTANT OPERATIONAL FEATURES

• The disease definition and ICD codes have been updated, with no operational effect.
• There are two new causal factors in RH only.  These are exposure to organic solvents and being infected with Epstein Barr virus.
• There is a change to the wording of the definition of ICD-10-AM.  The new definition will appear in future SOPs. The intent of this change is to ensure that the wording of the definition takes precedence over the ICD codes.

• The changes described below are common to both the lumbar and thoracic spondylosis SOPs.
• The disease definition and ICD codes have been updated, with no operational effect.
• As in the osteoarthrosis SOPs, the old malalignment factor has been replaced with one for disordered joint mechanics, with an associated definition.
• The 10 year physical activity factor has been replaced with new factors for lifting loads while weight bearing, the same as those in the osteoarthrosis SOPs.  Note that there is no longer a minimum 10 year requirement and that the individual and total weight requirements are greater in the BOP SOP than in the RH SOP.
• There are new causal and aggravating factors for repetitive or persistent flexion, extension or twisting of the spine.
• There are also new causal and aggravating factors for being exposed to G forces, flying in high performance jet aircraft, and being obese.
• These changes are expected to have a significant bearing an claims, resulting in an increased acceptance rate.

• The disease definition and ICD codes have been updated, with no operational effect.
• Again, the old malalignment factor has been replaced with one for disordered joint mechanics.
• There are new causal and worsening factors for carrying loads on the head while upright.  Note that the individual and total weight requirements are greater in the BOP SOP than in the RH SOP.
• There are new causal and worsening factors for flying in high performance aircraft and being obese.
• Again these changes are expected to have a significant bearing on claims.

Remember! If you are having any problems with SOPs, or SOPs in CCPS, talk to us!