7.9.8 Referral to Medical Panel
WIC Workplace Injury Commission may refer a question to the Medical Panel Under the legislation, unless inconsistent with the context or subject-matter — Medical Panel means a Medical Panel constituted under Division 2 of Part 12 either at the request of a party or by initiating the request itself where the referral will assist in the resolution of a dispute. A party can request a referral of a question to a Medical Panel either in writing or at hearing. Where the request is made in writing, it should be made together with supporting reasons/documentation as soon as practicable. WIC must seek the opinion of each party to the dispute before referring matter to the Medical Panel for an opinion, but can do so without each party’s agreement.
Where a matter is referred to a Medical Panel, WIC will not undertake any further arbitration until receipt of the Medical Panel opinion. Medical Panel opinions constitute findings of fact. Once they are received, WIC will invite the parties to consider whether the Medical Panel opinion might lead to a resolution of the dispute, alternatively recommence the arbitration.
