Workiing as a rehab consultant?

[physiogirl76]

Hi there,

I have been working in Australia for a few years, mostly in the public sector, but feel it´s time for a fresh change. I´ve always been interested to work in occupational health, maybe because I like structures, organisation and "the big picture". I am considering to make the move to become a rehab consultant (I´ve already been in touch with a recruitment company) but I am still a bit unsure whether it´s the right thing for me.
I suppose, having worked in a clinical environment for a few years, the thought of stepping out into a more corporate world, is a bit daunting. Most physios I know are clinical physios so it´s hard to get feedback from somene who is actually doing that job.
Anybody around here who works in this field?
Do you find it rewarding/interesting?
Any thoughts would be greatly welcome!

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[Fyzzio]

Hi,
sounds very interesting.
Could you please dwell a little more on what the position as rehab consultant involves?
Would you work for a private company as a kind of case manager, or more like a case adviser? Would you be placed on a rehab ward in a hospital and act as service co-ordinator? Is is a legal company disputing cases and finances? or an insurance?
???
Cheers,
Fyzzio

[physiogirl76]

Hi Fyzzio,

from what I know, most rehab consultants would work for rehab companies, some for insurance. They are involved in the whole return to work process after an accident/health condition (usually Workcover), they would do e.g. functional capacity evaluations, pre-employment screenings, ergonomic worksite assessments, case-management, liaison with various stakeholders etc.
I´ve heard though that it can be quite a draining job, especially working for a rehab company, as you deal with difficult people who often don´t want to return to work. Apparently, there´s a high-turnover for rehab consultants as the job is quite stressful. But that´s not based on my own experience - so it would be interesting to talk to somebody who has actually worked in that field and would be able to give a realistic insight into this industry.