What a certificate of capacity needs
Unsure who can sign a certificate of capacity, or what it must say? Here's what each part is for, and who can issue one under each scheme.
What it's for
A certificate of capacity tells the insurer and the employer what the injured person can and can't do at work right now, and for how long. Weekly payments and return-to-work plans usually depend on it.
What it usually includes
- The injury or condition (diagnosis)
- Whether the person has capacity for their usual work, some work, or no work for now
- Any restrictions, such as lifting limits, hours or tasks to avoid
- The period it covers, and when it will be reviewed
- The treating practitioner's details and signature
Getting it right first time
- Use the scheme's own form, and fill in every part.
- Describe what the person can do, not just what they can't.
- Keep the period within the scheme's maximum.
- Book the review before the certificate ends, so there's no gap.
Where we fit
Where a scheme lets a physiotherapist issue certificates, and its conditions are met, our treating physiotherapist can. Everywhere else, we send the treating doctor objective findings to support their certificate.
Certificates of capacity
A physiotherapist can issue certificates of capacity only under these schemes:
- WorkSafe Victoria. Our physiotherapist can issue ongoing certificates once the first certificate from the doctor is on file, each covering up to 28 days. The most recent consultation must be in person, unless WorkSafe Victoria has approved telehealth.
- Transport Accident Commission (TAC). Our physiotherapist can issue certificates when they are the client's primary treating practitioner.
- NSW workers compensation. Our physiotherapist can issue ongoing certificates once the first certificate from the doctor is on file, each covering up to 28 days.
Everywhere else, certificates come from the treating doctor. We send the doctor a supporting report instead. We check eligibility on every referral before any certificate is issued. See every scheme, state by state.