“Knowing how to play the game”: Clinician experiences of treating patients with a compensable injury in Australia

Abstract

Purpose Previous research indicates that the compensation process is stressful for people with a compensable injury, contributing to poorer recovery. However, little is known about the challenges faced by clinicians who work in this setting. This study aims to qualitatively explore the experiences of clinicians delivering care to patients with compensable injuries in Australia. Materials and methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 26 experienced clinicians providing care to compensable patients in Australia. The interviews were transcribed, and data were analysed using reflective thematic analysis. Results Participants described their work as challenging due to factors such as high patient distress, poor clinical outcomes, and high administrative load. However, they responded to these challenges in varying ways. While some reported feelings of vicarious injustice, emotional exhaustion, and self-doubt, others derived a sense of meaning, purpose, and mastery from these challenges. Clinician responses to the challenge of working with people with a compensation claim were associated with access to mentoring, continuous education and training, and a supportive workplace culture. Conclusion Clinicians reported both positive and negative responses to the challenges of working with people with a compensable injury. Understanding individual and workplace factors shaping clinician responses to the demands of working with compensable patients may be crucial for retaining the clinical workforce and improving access to compensable care.