Important Changes to QLD Coal Mine Workers' Health Scheme

Recently there has been some changes to the QLD Coal Mine Workers’ Health Scheme to assist in early detection of coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (CWP).

Effective immediately, the Department of Natural Resources and Mines has implemented a two-reader process for all Chest X-rays completed as part of a QLD Coal Mine Workers’ Health Medical.

The two-reader process commences when the Nominated Medical Advisor or Examining Medical Officer refers the coal mine worker for a chest x-ray (CXR).

Overview of the new two-reader process

What Impact will these Changes have for you as the Employer?

It is important to note that these changes will have an impact on you as the employer. These changes have been outlined below for your understanding.

Turn Around Times for Coal Mine Workers’ Health Medicals

Once the medical and chest x-ray have been completed, the Chest X-ray image will need to be uploaded to a secure portal run by the Department of Natural Resources and Mines (DNRM). The DNRM will then provide that Chest X-ray image to a US based NIOSH Accredited Radiologist to perform a second review of the Chest X-ray image. The DNRM has advised all NMA’s that this process for the new two-reader process will take between 5 – 7 business days once uploaded to their secure portal.

Please note this is a short-term interim measure that will be in place until a Queensland-based dual screening and adjudication process is established in partnership with medical practitioners and other key stakeholders.

When Will we Get the Section 4?

With the new two-reader process, the NMA is unable to sign off the section 4 until the second radiologist report is returned by the DNRM. The DNRM estimates that the second radiologist review conducted in the USA, will take approximately 5 to 7 business days once the Chest X-ray image has been uploaded to their secure portal.

Still have Questions?

We understand that you may still have questions associated with these changes to the QLD Coal Mine Workers’ Health Scheme. Should you wish to discuss these changes further, please feel free to contact KINNECT.