An employee is expected to make reasonable efforts to arrange routine medical examinations outside work time. Where this is not possible, some form of leave may be negotiated with the employer.
 

What is expected while on workers' compensation? 

Sometimes employees may be on ‘suitable duties’ and see their doctor on company time. This may mean finishing their shift early or leaving during the day and coming back. The impacts of this need to be considered at the time of establishing a return to work plan.

The relevant state workers' compensation regulator may specify in the return to work guidance when an employee is expected to attend a medical appointment.
 

Return-to-work plan

If the state workers' compensation regulator does not specify details of times an employee will attend treatment then it is for negotiation between the employee and employer.

Consideration needs to be given to the location of work, treatment, work routines, and other relevant factors. A consultative approach is necessary outlining when any treatment should be obtained by employees out of working hours whenever practicable.

A reasonable approach might be that when a worker is not back at work full-time, they seek treatment in their own time. Once they resume full-time employment and if it is harder to access medical treatment then the employer may allow time during work hours to access the treatment. 

An effective return-to-work plan is one that allows the employee to access the medical treatment required that enables them to return to pre-injury duties as soon as possible.