Introduction to the Audit
Guidelines for the ACC Partnership Programme
What
is it?
The ACC Partnership Programme (ACC PP) allows the University of Otago , as an accredited employer, to act as an agent of ACC. Entitlements are provided under the Injury, Prevention, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2001 in relation to work-related personal injuries and illnesses caused by an accident (as defined by the Act). The ACC PP encourages employers to take responsibility for:
- Workplace health and safety
- Injury management which includes rehabilitation and
- Claims management of employees' work injuries.
In doing so, the ACC PP allows the University to:
- Respond quickly to support employees suffering a personal injury caused by an accident at work
- Continue to raise the level of workplace health and safety management and participation
The University of Otago entered the ACC PP in August 2000, following the successful completion of an audit by an external independent auditor. To view the audit tool used, refer to the link to the ACC web page provided below.
The programme has three levels of operation - primary level, secondary level and tertiary level (the highest level). The University of Otago is audited annually by an external ACC approved auditor to remain in the scheme. ACC also audit the maintenance of files and entitlement provisions to ensure compliance with the legislative requirements.
Who manages the programme?
The ACC Case Management Team effectively operates
as an ACC branch for staff with work related personal injury or illness. Claims decisions, entitlement approval along with ensuring the provision of rehabilitation planning and support are all administered by the team.
If you disagree with any decisions that the ACC Case Management Team make then you have the right to ask for this decision to be reviewed. The first step is to ask the University of Otago Disputes Manager, Kevin Seales , to review the decision. If you are still unhappy you have the right to ask for an external party to review the decision. Full details of this process are available from the Health & Safety Office.
What do employees of the University of Otago need to know?
When you join the University, you will be provided with an ACC Accredited Employer wallet card. If you have a work related injury or illness while employed by the University of Otago , and seek treatment from a health professional (Doctor, Physiotherapist, etc.) please show this card to the treatment provider. The treatment provider will then know to forward the relevant information directly to the University of Otago , not ACC. If you do not have a card, contact your DHSO or the Health and Safety Team.
For additional information please see Getting help - and what to know if you've been injured at work
See also the University's ACC brochure
Will my entitlements be the same?
Absolutely. The University is required to meet the ACC legislation entitlement and cover provisions. As the University manages the ACC funds directly, treatment can often be organised and provided at short notice.
An example of the Entitlements that may be available can be seen here.
For further details on the ACC Partnership Programme (ACC PP)
go to:
http://www.acc.co.nz/for-business/small-medium-and-large-business/how-to-pay-less/BUS00052
Code of Claimant Rights
For details of the University Code of Claimant Rights under the Programme please go to:
Code of Claimant Rights
What about an injury which has happened away from work
Your claim will be managed by ACC who will work with you and include the Health and Safety Team and your Manager where appropriate. If you need support please phone Cath Logan (03 479 5034) or the Health & Safety Office (03 479 4903).
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