Information for Employees

Purpose of the assessment

The purpose of an independent medical assessment is to provide an objective, expert opinion about how your health relates to your work. It helps clarify issues such as whether you are fit for your current duties, what limitations (if any) may apply, and what supports or adjustments could assist you to work safely and effectively.

The assessment is intended to support fair and informed decision-making. It provides medical guidance to both you and your employer about your work capacity, recovery, and any recommended accommodations or return-to-work planning.

What is an Occupational Physician?

An Occupational Physician is a qualified medical specialist (a medical doctor) who works with employers and employees to assess and manage health issues that may affect a person’s ability to work, or that may be affected by their work. In most cases the physician is acting as an independent, non-treating practitioner rather than in a traditional doctor–patient relationship like your GP or hospital specialists. While they may provide advice on treatment or rehabilitation and suggest or request investigations, they will generally not be responsible for your ongoing care.

How long do appointments take?

Appointments typically last 30 to 60 minutes. You are welcome to bring a support person. In some situations this may be required due to health considerations. If an examination requires a chaperone and you do not have a support person available, one can be arranged.

Important information

• 1The consultation will include an interview, medical history, and possible physical examination (depending on the nature of your health condition).
• 2The consultation will usually involve a detailed discussion of your current and past symptoms, medical and social history, and occupational background. As a significant amount of information needs to be gathered, the physician may ask many specific questions. You are not required to answer any question you are uncomfortable with, please just tell the physician if there are any questions you prefer not to answer.
• 3If you have relevant medical reports (e.g. specialist letters or test results) that you are willing to share, please bring copies. This information will be kept confidential and would not be released without your consent.
• 4In some circumstances the physician may conduct a medical examination focused on the areas where you have symptoms, and may also include a general examination (for example heart, lungs, and abdomen). You may be asked to undress to your underclothes, and a gown or drape can be provided for privacy. You may have a support person present, and you are not required to consent to the examination.
• 5You will be given an opportunity during the consultation to ask any questions you have.
• 6A fee may be charged to your employer if you miss your appointment or cancel within 24 hours.

Confidentiality and privacy

Your privacy and confidentiality are respected throughout the independent medical assessment. Information discussed during your consultation is handled in accordance with medical confidentiality and privacy requirements. Only relevant work-related information will be included in the report shared with your employer, and you will be given the option of reviewing your reported history before it is released. The report details will not be released to your employer without your consent.

What the physician may include in the report

The report may include details about health conditions that affect your work, or that may be affected by your work, based on the consultation and the information you provide, and information from other sources such as your own doctor and your employer. If there is anything you would prefer not to be included, please discuss this with the physician during your appointment.

You have the option to receive a copy of the history you have provided, to review and confirm you are comfortable with it being shared with your employer. The Occupational Physician provides an independent clinical opinion based solely on medical evidence. The final report will be sent to you, your employer, and your GP (with your consent) at the same time, usually within one to two weeks of your consultation.

Limits on report content

The Occupational Physician focuses on work-related health matters. For sensitive personal issues unrelated to work (e.g. significant stressors outside the workplace), the report may note that external factors are impacting on work capacity without including personal details. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us directly.