WorkSafe Tasmania engaged Healthcare Management Advisors to undertake a formative evaluation of the new Workers Compensation Certificate of Capacity (Certificate). The Certificate was introduced in February 2024 to replace the medical certificates previously used to support workers compensation claims. The evaluation focused on user satisfaction, the quality of data provided in the new Certificate, and any emerging issues. Key tasks in undertaking the evaluation included:
- Development of an evaluation framework to guide the collection, analysis and reporting of qualitative and quantitative data. This stage included a brief scan of the literature to identify issues relevant to the Certificate’s structure and ability to facilitate the return-to-work process.
- Collection of data to inform each of the evaluation questions. Data collection processes included surveys of medical practitioners, employers, and workplace rehabilitation providers; focus groups with insurers, self-insurers, and Tasmanian State Service agencies; and consultations with key stakeholders. In addition, HMA analysed 40 completed Certificates to assess the quality and completeness of information being provided against expected standards.
- Triangulation of data against each key evaluation question to draw conclusions on the implementation, effectiveness, appropriateness, and usability of the Certificate. Findings were presented in a final evaluation report.
The project commenced in September 2023 and was completed in November 2024.
