ICBC CHANGES – NEW OBLIGATIONS FOR HEALTH CARE PRACTITIONERS
DID YOU KNOW?
Health care practitioners have new diagnostic and treatment protocols to follow when caring for a patient who has been injured in a motor vehicle accident. If the patient’s injuries are captured under ICBC’s new definition of a minor injury, the health care practitioner is also required to educate the patient on the following matters:
- If applicable, the desirability of an early return to pre-injury activities, employment or education.
- An estimate of the likely length of time the symptoms will last.
- The usual course of recovery.
- The likely factors that are responsible for the symptoms.
- Appropriate self-management and pain management strategies.
The above must be documented in clinical notes and records. Patients will be looking closely to their health care practitioner to provide an accurate diagnosis and advise. Furthermore, it is the patient’s responsibility to comply with the advice they receive. Failure to do so, without reasonable excuse, may result in a loss of entitlement to compensation.
The laws in B.C. have changed and it may no longer be enough to seek treatment without first consulting legal advice. It is wise, then, to contact a lawyer immediately after a motor vehicle accident. They can help you understand the new system, defend your rights and ensure that you receive proper compensation.
Based in Cranbrook, Rella, Paolini & Rogers operates one of the largest, most successful motor vehicle accident claims practices in the southeast region of B.C., with a focus on ICBC claims.