The Australian Medical Association (WA) today slammed proposed changes to Workers Compensation legislation

The Australian Medical Association (WA) today slammed proposed changes to Workers Compensation legislation saying they would restrict access to medical care.

"This arrogant and offensive legislation will mean the Government will have the power to tell injured workers how many times they can see their doctor and what treatment they can receive," AMA Workers Compensation spokesman Dr Richard Choong said.

"This is a cynical attempt to restrict access to doctors in an attempt to reduce costs."

"The patient’s doctor is the best person to decide on treatment in consultation with the injured worker, not the Government," Dr Choong said. "Some of the proposed changes to the legislation are anti-patient."

"For the past 12 months the AMA (WA) has warned the Government of the problems with the legislation and has met several times with the Minister for Consumer and Employment."

"We are extremely disappointed there is a total lack of concern for injured patients and we are surprised the Minister has not addressed these serious concerns," Dr Choong said.

"The Government should not have the right to intervene in the way a patient is treated."

"The AMA is committed to ensuring this legislation is amended to ensure appropriate treatment for injured workers and support for their ongoing care." http://www.amawa.com.au