Stress claims – how to use surveillance effectively:
With the current preponderance of stress claims, the question often arises regarding how to provide useful observations on psychological injuries which can address concerns regarding the stated RTW capacities.
As with most surveillance investigations, the key to a successful outcome is the information that can be provided at the outset of the investigation. In our experience, case conferencing, mediation, affidavits and S112 reports can all provide a wealth of specific information on current physical limitations, symptoms and/or lifestyle changes which have arisen from a claimant’s psychological injuries.
Examples of this kind of information could be:
- an inability to leave the house alone
- unable to drive a car
- avoidance of social groups or activities
- dependence on others to conduct basic tasks
- time limitations on the conduct of regular activities
Where there are indications or evidence that the claimant’s activities and/or RTW capacities are beyond what is reported, the above types of specific information can be addressed in a surveillance report, providing a tool to be used appropriately in the targeted management of ongoing psychological injury claims.
If you have any queries regarding MPOL's management of surveillance investigations into psychological injury claims, please feel free to contact Rick Nogas or Stephen Scahill or call us on 03 9572 1433