Who manages the DVA rehabilitation process?

There are a number of players who are fundamental to the provision of rehabilitation services to DVA clients. Two of the key roles which are often confused are the rehabilitation coordinator and the rehabilitation service provider. 

The role of the DVA Rehabilitation Coordinator

The role of the DVA Rehabilitation Coordinator is to facilitate and monitor the program of activities for the client involved in the rehabilitation process so as to return the person to a level of functioning, consistent with medical advice in accordance with the relevant legislation, policies and procedures which apply to that individual’s circumstances. The Rehabilitation Coordinator is a link between the client, treating medical practitioners, allied health workers, service providers, training organisations and the managing agency. The Rehabilitation Coordinator is a DVA staff member.

The role of the Rehabilitation Service Provider

Service providers are engaged by DVA to provide specific services to meet the rehabilitation needs of an individual. Rehabilitation service providers undertake a range of activities including assessment, plan development and management on behalf of DVA to optimise rehabilitation outcomes. Responsibility for the approval of these provisions recommended by the service provider are made by DVA Rehabilitation Coordinators.

The Rehabilitation Coordinator has responsibility for the decision of who will provide what rehabilitation services for the client. The choice of support services will depend on the local services available and the specific needs of the client. Service providers used for a client’s rehabilitation fall into four main categories:

Rehabilitation service providers: are responsible for the daily management and the accessing of all approved services required by the client. Rehabilitation service providers have to be approved by Comcare Australia, or by the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Commission (MRCC) to provide such services.

Health and Allied Health service providers: are qualified and registered, general practitioners, medical specialists, dentists, psychologists, rehabilitation counsellors, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, osteopaths, podiatrists, prosthetists, orthotists, masseurs or chiropractors and dieticians.

Training providers: are accredited educational institutions or training providers at state or national levels.

Support service providers: include agencies or individuals who can provide services that assist in job preparation skilling or job placement for people seeking employment; services of a domestic nature (cooking, house cleaning, laundry and gardening services); other services, medical, nursing care, that are required for the essential and regular personal care of the client; and services which assist in altering a client’s place of residence, work or training or can provide rehabilitation aids an appliances.