The State Insurance Regulatory Authority says three initiatives focusing on the role of health providers in personal injury schemes will move forward next year.

The programs aim to improve the way providers are regulated and how medical practitioners work within the schemes and with injured people, SIRA says.

An independent review of health provider regulation, including SIRA practices and state and federal collaboration opportunities, will begin targeted industry consultations in January.  

Public feedback will also be sought as part of the review led by Sue Dawson, who was appointed to the role in July.

SIRA has also tendered for a research partner on an “action-oriented study that clarifies and enhances the efficacy” of personal injury scheme medical practitioners. The project will deliver recommendations to inform future policy.

And the regulator is reviewing the certificate of capacity, or certificate of fitness, used in workers’ compensation and compulsory third party assessments.

“The review will consider opportunities to improve the quality of information shared between stakeholders and support better return to work planning and recovery outcomes.”