Reasonable Hypothesis SOP [1] | 25 of 2020 |
Balance of Probabilities SOP [2] | 26 of 2020 |
SOP bulletin 214 [3]
Multiple ICD codes potentially apply depending on the specific nature of the injuries.
The explosive blast shot injury SOP covers any physical injury resulting from an explosive blast, including: the direct effects of the overpressure wave (generally from high explosives); injuries from flying debris or fragments; and injuries from being thrown against an object by the force of the blast. The SOP could also potentially cover, e.g., burns from an explosive blast, or a crush fracture resulting from the firing of an aircraft ejection seat (which uses an explosive blast for ejection).
Such injuries may also be covered by other SOPs. The most appropriate SOP for the circumstances of the claim should be applied. More than one SOP may be applicable depending on the specific circumstances. The name of the SOP should not be used as a diagnostic label for claims. The diagnostic label should be changed to one that accurately describes the relevant injury or injuries.
The diagnosis can be confirmed based on a record or report from a medical practitioner. Specialist opinion is not required.
* another SOP applies
Clinical onset is not a term used in any SOP factor for this SOP, but the clinical onset will be at the time of the relevant injury.
The SOP has only an inability to obtain appropriate clinical management factor for clinical worsening. This could only be relevant in the unlikely scenario where the blast injury was non-service related, but the treatment provided (for the direct effects of the blast) was service-related.
Links
[1] http://www.rma.gov.au/assets/SOP/2020/712fa2d529/025.pdf
[2] http://www.rma.gov.au/assets/SOP/2020/c6f16216a1/026.pdf
[3] https://clik.dva.gov.au/system/files/media/SOP%20bulletin%20214_0.pdf