WSBC has released a new discussion paper, in it they list decision notification as the issue to be decided appon, when in fact they actualy apear to be trying to eliminate any possible potential advantage that injured workers can have in the appeal processes, its not what they have added in bold.. it's the strike throughs to be eliminated, they are trying to eliminate their need to explain their reasons for decisions, and they want to eliminate their having to explain what evidence was considered reasonable in our apeals and what evidence was considered unfavorible or discounted and why.
Please note that in the link above the bolded words are added words and the strike throughs are proposed items to delete, see page ten (10). They are proposing eliminating their having to discuss the following issues in BC workers appeal decisions letters:
Describe investigations carried out, including interviews conducted.
Review contact with the worker where the relevant issues were discussed and detail the worker's response.
List the various conclusions possible from the evidence.
In support of the conclusion reached, explain:
a) what evidence was considered favourable, with reasons, and
b) what evidence was considered unfavourable, or discounted, with reasons.
Discuss the question of evenly weighted evidence.
Summarize the formal decision.
Explain what the decision entails regarding non-payment of wage loss compensation, medical accounts, other benefits, etc.
These proposed changes I believe will further handicap the injured workers in the appeal process, I sugest that all concerned citizens and injured workers respond to this decision letter with a submission here:
Stakeholders are invited to provide feedback on the discussion paper, options, draft policy, and any additional comments that may be relevant to the issue.
Stakeholder comments will be accepted until August 29, 2008. When responding, please provide your name, organization, and address. Comments may be sent by mail, fax or e-mail to:
By mail: Lori Guiton
Senior Policy Analyst
Policy and Research Division
WorkSafeBC
P.O. Box 5350, Stn. Terminal
Vancouver, B.C. V6B 5L5
By fax: 604 279-7599
By e-mail: policy@worksafebc.com
WorkSafeBC’s governing body, the Board of Directors, will consider the options expressed by stakeholders before it adopts any amendments to the current policies.
Please note that all comments become part of the Policy and Research Division’s database and may be published, including the identity of organizations and those participating on behalf of organizations. The identity of those who have participated on their own behalf will be kept confidential according to the provisions of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
Policy and Research Division 2008 – 2010 Policy Priorities
Compensation and Occupational Disease Policy Workplan