What is a work capacity assessment ?
with Anthony McDonnell of McDonnell Schroder
An insurer conducts a work capacity assessment to ascertain a worker ’ s ability to return to work following an injury in the workplace .
It is a review of the worker ’ s function , vocational and medical status .
In conducting a work capacity assessment , consideration will be given to all available information including medical reports from your treating doctor ; that is why it is important that
your GP is experienced in worker ’ s compensation matters .
Inexperienced GP ’ s can have an adverse impact if the doctor is unfamiliar with workers ’ compensation injuries .
I have seen in my experience GPs not fully considering the worker ’ s ability to work , negatively influencing the work capacity assessment decision .
Other matters that are considered include : - Independent medical reports - Independent medical plans - Workplace assessment reports - Functional capacity reports - Vocational assessment reports - Information involving the workers education , training and experience
Once you have been assessed the insurer will make a worker ’ s capacity decision . If you disagree with an insurer ’ s decision , remember you are entitled to apply for free legal representation .
Once again don ’ t just accept an insurer ’ s decision without obtaining legal advice .
If you need legal advice from a professional , contact McDonnell Schroder on 9622 1155 .
This article is written in a general non-specific manner . Always contact your solicitor for specific legal advice .
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FINANCE
How long has it been since you reviewed your mortgage ?
by Angela Dye , Home Loan Expert at Richmond Residential Pty Ltd
In the ever-changing world of finance , it ’ s important that you review your mortgage on a regular basis . What is that time frame ? A good timeframe to work with is two years . If you have not reviewed your mortgage in the last two years , then today would be a good time to start .
Many borrowers ask me , how do we go about reviewing our mortgage ? What to consider in a review will vary from person to person . You can start with income - has it changed since you last applied for a mortgage , has it increased or decreased . Are you still with the same employer under the same terms . Have you increased your unsecured debts or your personal monthly expenses . How has your lifestyle changed .
The marketing around mortgages is predominantly focused on an interest rate . However , sitting behind every rate is a product , and like all products you get what you pay for . It is very easy to get caught up in the lowest rate advertised .
Without an understanding of the product that sits behind the rate , many people can become disappointed when they start applying to banks for the advertised rate , only to realise that they
do not meet the criteria .
Each person ’ s financial situation is individual . I have worked in the industry for many years , and it is very rare to see clients that are in the same situation as the people around them . Finances are a very personal thing . Most people will not discuss their full situation with their family and friends . They may hear suggestions and criticisms and although they are meant well , they may not be the best outcome for your situation . A mortgage is not a ‘ one size fits all ’ product .
There are many types of loans available in the market today , and the criteria for each will be different . Trying to find the one that you will be eligible to apply for and successfully secure can be time consuming .
This is where the services of a professional mortgage broker will help . They will work to find the best product for you . They understand the banks ’ products and requirements and will quickly present options to you that will suit your situation .
This will mean a faster process , less stress and a positive outcome for most borrowers .
If you would like to have a free review of your mortgage , then contact Angela Dye on 0414 608 970 to discuss your situation or visit www . richmondresidential . com . au .
THE HAWKESBURY INDEPENDENT theindependentmagazine . com . au ISSUE 150 // NOVEMBER 2022 25