NSW’s State Insurance Regulatory Authority is evaluating workplace rehabilitation providers used under the workers’ compensation scheme. 

It aims to understand the effectiveness of their services and identify areas for improvement.

Workplace rehabilitation provider services can be engaged as part of a claim, in addition to those provided by the employer, insurer and treating practitioner.

Last financial year, such services cost about $250 million, from more than 100 approved providers.

“SIRA will use these findings to inform the development of a regulatory and outcomes framework and provide guidance to the ongoing management of [providers],” the authority said.

“This evaluation will support SIRA to hold regulated entities accountable in delivering optimal outcomes and value, thereby ensuring that schemes operate to achieve their objectives for customers.”

The authority says consultant Urbis and Monash University will run the evaluation using qualitative and quantitative methods.