Medical panel workers’ compensation
Whether you disagree with the medical panel's assessment of your injuries or want expert advice about your workers compensation claim, Shine Lawyers can help. Our expert workers’ compensation lawyers can help you get the best outcome possible on a No Win, No Fee* basis.
*Conditions apply.
Check if you have a claim with our simple, free online tool.
What we will ask:
Details about the accident and injuries that have happened to you or your loved one
Basic personal information that is relevant and necessary for your claim
What happens next:
Either book a no obligation appointment with a compensation law expert right away or,
Speak with our team about your options
If you've made a workers’ compensation claim, you may be required to attend a consultation with a medical panel. But why? What does it involve? And what happens if you disagree with their decision?
What is a medical panel?
As the name suggests, a medical panel is a body of doctors assembled to resolve a medical question. After the examination, the panel usually has 60 days to finalise their opinion. Medical panels provide legally binding answers with detailed written reasons for their decisions. If you've been referred to a medical panel, you can find out more information about what to expect here: http://www.medicalpanels.vic.gov.au/claimants.
How does it relate to workers' compensation?
Medical panels are established under the Workers Compensation legislation and the Wrongs Act 1958. When there's disagreement regarding the nature of a person's injuries, what caused the injuries or whether the injury reaches the minimum threshold to entitle the injured person to compensation, a medical panel may be called upon to provide their independent and expert opinion.
What if you disagree with the results of the examination?
If you disagree with the medical panel's assessment, you have a maximum of 60 days to file an appeal at the Supreme Court. The 60-day limitation period starts from the date that the medical panel signed off on their decision. Obtaining an extension of time to file an appeal, once the 60-day limitation period has expired is very difficult.
When it comes to the medical panel's opinion there are three main reasons for an appeal:
The panel has failed to take something into account or has taken something into account it shouldn't have.
One party has provided the panel with information the other party hasn't been made aware of.
It is impossible to understand from reading the Opinion and Reasons how the medical panel reached its conclusion.
If you need help or further advice, get in touch with Shine Lawyers and we'll do everything we can to assist you.
Superannuation and Disability Insurance
If you are unable to work due to illness or injury you might be entitled to benefits through your superannuation or other insurance policies. We recommend speaking to one of our experts for a quick, obligation-free analysis of your situation to determine your rights and ability to make a claim.
Learn more about Superannuation and Disability Insurance Claims
How Shine can help
We have helped thousands of Australians right wrong and access more than $1 billion per year in entitlements and compensation through our expert services.
95% of the cases we represent are settled without the stress of going to court.
We offer access to affordable legal advice including on a No Win, No Fee* basis and an obligation free initial consultation so you can understand your rights and know where you stand.
*Conditions apply
We are ready to take action to get you access to compensation, protect your future and right wrong. Find out more today:
Medical panel workers’ compensation FAQs
Can I represent myself, or do I need a workers’ compensation lawyer?
It is possible to legally represent yourself when making a claim however, doing so successfully will likely require a thorough understanding of the law, your legal rights and entitlements, and a commitment to actively pursue the case to move it forward.
Without an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer in your corner, it can be difficult to identify and highlight the strengths of your case.
Without the right legal advice and support, you then may not receive the compensation you're entitled to. A lawyer can help you maximise your lump sum entitlements.
Why trust Shine to be my workers’ compensation lawyers?
At Shine Lawyers, we put your first. We’ve been standing up for the rights of everyday Australians for over 45 years. As one of Australia’s largest litigation law firms, we are here to help you get the justice you deserve.
Our empathy, understanding and expertise is why we’re ahead of the pack. We’ll stand with you and guide you through every step of the way.
Where are Shine workers’ compensation lawyers located?
With more than 40 branches across Australia and 1000+ team members, location is no barrier when it comes to accessing Shine Lawyers legal advice and support.
If you’d like to speak to our workers’ compensation team in person, you can see our full list of locations here.
If you aren't able to find a location near you, we can easily arrange an obligation-free virtual appointment. No matter where you are located, we will always provide the same, expert advice and manage your claim with the same level of quality and commitment.
