National employers that are self-insured for workers' compensation are currently facing unique challenges. New South Wales' icare has reported over 250 notifications across the scheme for workers suspected of having contracted COVID-19 at work and/or of suffering an associated 'mental disorder’.

These and similar statistics that are emerging in other jurisdictions have led some self-insurers to look at mobilising special teams of case managers, lawyers, medical experts and allied health providers to ensure that COVID-19 related claims are managed in a cohesive and consistent way.

Similar challenges arise regarding workers with other types of claims due to the disruption that COVID-19 has created for their rehabilitation programs and the consequential impact on the duration and cost of their claims. Injuries or illnesses suffered by workers whilst working from home during the pandemic adds yet another layer of complexity.

Here we answer key questions being asked by self-insured employers, including:

• What they need to consider when they have had to stand down some of their workforce as a result of COVID-19;
• The potential for employees to access workers' compensation benefits for illness or injuries sustained while working from home;
• How to manage a claim by an employee who tests positive for COVID-19.