Help4Backs - Are you getting the help you need? Mk2

1. Does your pain affect your work, relationships at work, or sense of job security?

2. Does your pain affect your ability to look after yourself (food, shopping and personal care)?

3. Does your pain affect your sleep?

4. Does your pain affect your activities, friendships and ability to be social?

5. Does your pain affect your life goals or what you think is possible for you?

6. I have had a medical review by a GP or hospital doctor in addition any other treaters I have seen e.g. chiropractors.

7. I have a treatment plan and program. I am doing it, and it’s getting results.

9. I trust and have confidence in my health providers. I feel heard and respected by them.

10. I understand the treatment options available and the differences between them in both the conventional and alternative health systems.

11. I have been given a detailed program to strengthen and retrain my body, supervised weekly. If not, the reason has been explained to me and I know I will require training in the future.

12. If surgery has been recommended: I have had at least two surgical opinions. I have sought advice from other experts (e.g. Rehabilitation Physician, Physiotherapist, Exercise Physiologist) on whether surgery is my best or only option.

13. I understand the basics of how my back and body works including the major muscular and skeletal components.

14. I have had an assessment of my posture, movement, work and exercise technique by an Occupational Therapist, Exercise Physiologist or Physiotherapist.

15. If my pain/injury has been for more than 3 months: I have attended a Pain Clinic or specialized Pain education. I understand the different types of pain and how to manage mine.

16. I have had a workplace an/or home Occupational Assessment to ensure these are optimized for my needs including aids and appliances.

17. I have a program in place that minimizes costs and maximizes reimbursements for all my treatment costs; work related, any home services and medical expenses.

18. Do you have private health insurance?

19. I understand my options for claimable treatment on Medicare.

I understand in detail what the insurance covers including for in-patient and out-patient rehabilitation.

I have done the sums and know my extra’s cover is worth the money.

I understand in detail what my policy covers, and exclusions, including surgical and in-patient rehabilitation.

Do you have an insurance claim (for this accident or injury) current or closed?

16. I have a qualified mental health expert I am working with.

I know how and what I can claim back from my insurer - and I’m doing that regularly.