Medical information websites
Websites that provide medical information include:
- Better Health Channel - this site funded by the Victorian State Government provides general medical and health information and details of services in Victoria
- Medline Plus - Health Information - this site contains the information on health topics, drug information, dictionaries, directories and other resources
- eMIMSplus - this site provides information on various medications as well as the uses and any precautions or adverse reactions that may occur
Codes and classifications grouped by medical categories
Medical categories - A-Z
Table 4: This table provides a list of medical categories in alphabetical order. These categories group together disabilities which affect the same body systems or have similar causes. Select a category to view the related medical conditions and their associated codes and classification within that category. If unsure which category applies to a particular medical condition search for a medical condition using the Find function. See Process page for more information on searching using the find function.
Note: conversion codes can no longer be entered on the MC screen or for medical certificate coding. Customers records may still have conversion codes recorded on the MC screen from historical assessments.
Categories A-Z
Category | Code | Literal | Classification |
Acquired Brain Injury | ABC TXB TBI | Acquired Brain Injury - Conversion Brain Injury - Toxic (e.g. Alcohol) Brain Injury - Traumatic | Conv. 1.1 1.2 |
Amputation | AMC AAK ABK AAE ABE | Amputation - Conversion Amputation - Above Knee Amputation - Below Knee Amputation - Above Elbow Amputation - Below Elbow | Conv. 2.1.1 2.1.2 2.2.1 2.2.2 |
Cancer/Tumour | BON BOW BRN BRT HDK LRX ALK CLK LVR LNG OSP OVN PCS PST RNL SRC SKN STM TST THY CHC OCT | Cancer/Tumour - Bone Cancer/Tumour - Bowel Cancer/Tumour - Brain Cancer/Tumour - Breast Hodgkin's/Non Hodgkin's Disease Cancer/Tumour - Larynx Cancer - Leukaemia (Acute) Cancer - Leukaemia (Chronic) Cancer/Tumour - Liver Cancer/Tumour - Lung Cancer/Tumour - Oesophagus Cancer/Tumour - Ovarian Cancer/Tumour - Pancreas Cancer/Tumour - Prostate Cancer/Tumour - Renal Cancer/Tumour - Sarcoma Cancer/Tumour - Skin Cancer/Tumour - Stomach Cancer/Tumour - Testicular Cancer/Tumour - Thyroid Childhood Cancers Cancer/Tumour - Other | 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 3.9 3.10 3.11 3.12 3.13 3.14 3.15 3.16 3.17 3.18 3.19 3.20 3.21 3.22 |
Circulatory System | CPH CHD CAD MYI PVD OCS HPT TDA IHD | Chronic Pulmonary Heart Disease Congenital Heart Disease Coronary Artery Disease Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack) Peripheral Vascular Disease Circulatory System - Other (e.g Vasculitis) Hypertension Chronic Transfusion Dependant Anaemia Ischaemic Heart Disease | 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.8 4.9 |
Congenital Abnormalities | ACS CLD OSI MIC MCA DUC OMY AMD FAD SMA PRC SPB ANG CDC EDW FXS PWS PAT RET WLM CHA SMM SMS PKU CPF CRS CDL KMU LAR OGS PKS SES OCH HED HWS LAM HAR SLS NES CIS BIE MET NEU SMG OCA | Arnold - Chiari Syndrome Congenital Limb Deformity Osteogenesis Imperfecta Microcephaly Congenital Abnormalities - Multiple Duchenne /Becker Muscular Dystrophy Myopathy - Other Autosomal Recessive Muscular Dystrophy Friedreich's Ataxia Spinal Muscular Atrophy Porencephaly Spina Bifida Angelman Syndrome Cri du Chat Syndrome Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18) Fragile X Syndrome (Child) Prader-Willi Syndrome Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13) Rett Syndrome Williams Syndrome Charge Association Mod/Severe Multiple Disability - Mobility Severe Multiple Disability - Under 6 Mth Phenylketonuria Coffin - Lowry Syndrome Congenital Rubella Syndrome Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Kabuki Make-up Syndrome Larsen's Syndrome Optiz G Syndrome Pallister-Killian Syndrome Seckel Syndrome Chromosomal/Syndromic Condition - Other Hypohydriotic Ectodermal Dysplasia Hay Wells Syndrome Lamellar Icthyosis Harlequin Icthyosis Sjogren-Larsson Syndrome Netherton's Syndrome Congenital Ichthyosiform Erythroderma Bullous Icthyosis - Generalised Metabolic Inborn Errors - Child only Severe Congenital Neutropenia Smith Magenis Syndrome Congenital Abnormality - Other | 5.1 5.2 5.2.1 5.3 5.4 5.5.1 5.5.2 5.5.3 5.5.4 5.5.5 5.6 5.7 5.8.1 5.8.2 5.8.3 5.8.4 5.8.5 5.8.6 5.8.7 5.8.9 5.8.10 5.8.11 5.8.12 5.8.13 5.8.14 5.8.15 5.8.16 5.8.17 5.8.18 5.8.19 5.8.20 5.8.21 5.8.22 5.8.23 5.8.24 5.8.25 5.8.26 5.8.27 5.8.28 5.8.29 5.8.30 5.8.31 5.8.35 5.8.36 5.9 |
Endocrine System | DBC IDD
NID
HET HOT OES | Diabetes - Conversion Diabetes - Insulin Dependent (also known as Type 1 Diabetes) Diabetes - Non Insulin Dependent (also known as Type 2 Diabetes) Hyperthyroidism Hypothyroidism Endocrine System Dysfunction - Other | Conv. 6.1.1 6.1.2 6.2 6.3 6.4 |
Gastro/Intestinal System | HRN CRD ULC DVD IBS COE LCT OPD RCD STO GAS | Hernia Crohns Disease Ulcerative Colitis Diverticular Disease Irritable Bowel Syndrome Coeliac Disease Lactose Intolerance Oesophageal Disorder Rectal Disorder Stomach Disorder (e.g. Ulcer) Gastroenterological Condition | 7.1 7.2.1 7.2.2 7.2.3 7.3 7.4.1 7.4.2 7.5 7.6 7.7 7.9 |
Immune System | HVA HV3 HV4 LPS IMM | HIV/AIDS HIV Category 3 HIV/AIDS Category 4 Lupus Immunodeficiency | 8.1 8.1.1 8.1.2 8.2 8.3 |
Infectious Diseases | IDC GLR HPA HPB HPC HPD FLU OSM TBS | Infectious Disease - Conversion Glandular Fever Hepatitis A Hepatitis B Hepatitis C Hepatitis D - H Influenza Osteomyelitis Tuberculosis | Conv. 9.1 9.2.1 9.2.2 9.2.3 9.2.4 9.3 9.4 9.5 |
Inherited Disorders | CYS HAE TLS | Cystic Fibrosis Haemophilia Thalassaemia or Haemoglobinopathy | 10.1 10.2 10.3.1 |
Intellectual/learning Disabilities | ADD DWN FXA KFS INC LRD LIQ INT | Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Down Syndrome Fragile X Syndrome (Adult) Klinefelter's Syndrome Intellectual Disability - Conversion Learning Disability IQ is Less Than 55 Intellectual Disability | 11.1 11.2.1 11.2.2 11.2.3 Conv. 11.3 11.4 11.4.1 |
Musculo-Skeletal and Connective Tissue Disorder | OST RHM OAR PJA FRC GOU LLD NCK SUA BCT CTS RCI SYT CSP IVD RPS SPD SPN SPR OSO OMS | Osteoarthritis Rheumatoid Arthritis Arthritis - Other Polyarticular Course Juvenile Arthritis Fractures and Crush Injuries Gout Lower Limb Deficiencies Neck Disorder Shoulder and Upper Arm Disorder Bursitis, Capsulitis & Tendonitis Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Rotator Cuff Injury Synovitis, Tenosynovitis & OOS Curvature of the Spine InterVertebral Disc Disorder Regional Pain Syndrome Spondylosis Spinal Disorder - Other Sprains & Strains Osteoporosis Musculoskeletal Disorder - Other | 13.1.1 13.1.2 13.1.3 13.1.4 13.2 13.3 13.4 13.5 13.6 13.7.1 13.7.2 13.7.3 13.7.4 13.8.1 13.8.2 13.8.3 13.8.4 13.8.5 13.9 13.10 13.11 |
Nervous System and Neurological | ALZ SEN CER EPC EAS EGM EMY ECS ESS GBS MND MSC SNR ONR KRB MLK MP1 MP2 MP3 MP4 MP6 PMP TAY OLS LNS MEN ZPD MRC ONC DPP HPP MPP PRP QPP POL HUN PAR ATT LEU OND ONS INN OSD MIG ASP AUT | Alzheimer's Disease Senile Dementia Cerebral Palsy Epilepsy - Conversion Epilepsy - Absence Seizure - Petit Mal Epilepsy - Grand Mal (Tonic-Clonic) Epilepsy - Myoclonic Seizure Epilepsy - Complex Seizure Epilepsy - Simple Seizure Guillain Barre Syndrome Motor Neurone Disease Multiple Sclerosis Sciatica - Nerve Root Compression Nerve Root Compression - Other Krabbe Disease Metachromatic Leukodystrophy MPS1 (Hurler Syndrome) MPS2 (Hunter Syndrome) MPS3 (San Filippo Syndrome) MPS IVA (Morquio Syndrome MPS VI (Maroteaux-Lamy Syndrome) Pompe Disease Tay Sach's Disease Lysosomal storage disorders - Other Lesch Nyhan Syndrome Menkes Disease Zellweger Syndrome/Peroxisomal Disorders Mitochondrial Respiratory Chain disorder Neurometabiolic Conditions - Other Diplegia Paraplegia (Paralysis) Hemiplegia (Paralysis) Monoplegia (Paralysis) Paraplegia (Paralysis) Quadriplegia (Paralysis) Poliomyelitis Huntington's Chorea Parkinson's Disease Ataxia Telangiectasia Leukodystrophies - Unclassified Neurodegenerative Disorder - Other Nervous System - Other Infections of the Nervous System Skin Disorder - Other Migraine Asperger's Disorder Autism Spectrum Disorder | 14.1.1 14.1.2 14.2 Conv. 14.3.1 14.3.2 14.3.3 14.4.1 14.4.2 14.5 14.6 14.7 14.8.1 14.8.2 14.9.1 14.9.2 14.9.3.1 14.9.3.2 14.9.3.3 14.9.3.4 14.9.3.5 14.9.4 14.9.5 14.9.6 14.9.7 14.9.8 14.9.9 14.9.10 14.9.11 14.10.1 14.10.2 14.10.3 14.10.4 14.10.5 14.11 14.12 14.13 14.14.1 14.14.2 14.14.3 14.18 14.15 14.16 14.17 15.2.2 15.2.3 |
Other/Diverse medical conditions | CFS FBM MCS CHR MOB VAB LCH | Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Fibromyalgia Multiple Chemical Syndrome Chronic Pain Morbid Obesity Ventilator Assisted Breathing Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis | 12.1 12.2 12.3 12.4 12.5 12.5 12.6 |
Psychological/Psychiatric | AXN BUL ANX BVR BPA CDD DPN EMD ECP ENU OCD ODD PND PYD PHB PTS PSD PSY SCH TOU OPP ALC DRG | Anorexia Nervosa Bulimia Anxiety Behaviour Disorder Bipolar Affective (Manic Depression) Child Disintegrative Disorder Depression Emotion. Disturb.; Child/Adolescent Encopresis Enuresis Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Oppositional Defiant Disorder Paranoid Personality Disorder Phobias Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Psychosocial Deprivation Psychotic Schizophrenia Tourette Syndrome Psychological/Psychiatric Disorder - Other Alcohol Dependence Drug Dependence | 15.1.1 15.1.2 15.2.1 15.2.4 15.2.5 15.2.6 15.2.7 15.2.8 15.2.9 15.2.10 15.2.11 15.2.12 15.2.13 15.2.14 15.2.15 15.2.16 15.2.17 15.2.18 15.2.19 15.2.20 15.2.22 15.3.1 15.3.2 |
Reproductive System | PRG EMT OGD ORP | Complications of Pregnancy Endometriosis Gynaecological Disorder - Other Reproductive Problem - Other | 16.1 16.2.1 16.2.2 16.3 |
Respiratory System | AST BRO COA EMP ORS LTT | Asthma Bronchitis Chronic Obstructive Airways Disease Emphysema Respiratory Disorder - Other (can be used for Covid) Tracheostamy - Long Term | 17.1 17.2 17.3 17.4 17.5 17.6 |
Sense Organs | SEC CHL PHL TIN VTO MNR HEL CLS STU SPE BLB BLO CAT GLA LVB LVO UEA UVL DFB | Sense Organs - Conversion Hearing Loss - Complete Hearing Loss - Partial Tinnitus Vertigo Meniere's Disease Hearing Loss - Child Only Speech Disorder - Complete Loss Speech Disorder - Stuttering Speech Disorder - Other Blind - Both Eyes Blind - One Eye Cataracts Glaucoma Low Vision - Both Eyes Low Vision - One Eye Eye Anomaly - Unspecified Visual Loss - Unspecified Deafness - Blindness | Conv. 18.1.1 18.1.2 18.1.3 18.1.4 18.1.5 18.1.6 18.2.1 18.2.2 18.2.3 18.3.1 18.3.2 18.3.3 18.3.4 18.3.5 18.3.6 18.3.7 18.3.8 18.4.1 |
Skin Disorders and Burns | BUR ECZ EBD PSO ATD | Burns and their effects Eczema Epidermolysis Bullosa Dystrophica Psoriasis Atopic Dermatitis | 19.1.1 19.2 19.3 19.4 19.5 |
Urogenital System | BLA KID RNT UIC | Urinary Tract Disorders incl Bladder Kidney Disorders Renal Tract Disorders Urinary Incontinence | 20.1 20.2 20.3 20.4 |
Visceral Disorders | GAL LVD PAN TRA UNK | Gallbladder Disorders Liver Disorder i.e. Cirrhosis but not Hep Pancreatic Disorder Transplant - Organ Failure Unknown - Conversion | 21.1 21.2 21.3 21.4 Conv. |
Medical abbreviations
Medical abbreviations A-D
Table 3: This table contains a list of common medical abbreviations used on medical certificates and reports by health professionals from A-D.
Letter | Abbreviation |
| A-D See also: E-L and M-Z | A.D.L, A.E, A.K, B.E, B.E.P, B.K, C, C 2, C.C.F, C.N.S, C.O.A.D, C.S.F, C/O, D.N.A, D.V.T |
Abbreviations A-D
Abbreviation | Description |
A.D.L | Activities of daily living |
A.E | Above elbow |
A.K | Above knee |
B.E | Below elbow |
B.E.P | Back education program |
B.K | Below knee |
C | With |
C 2 | Cervical |
C.C.F | Congestive cardiac failure |
C.N.S | Central nervous system |
C.O.A.D | Chronic obstructive airways disease |
C.S.F | Cerebro-vascular accident |
C/O | Complains of |
D.N.A | Did not attend |
D.V.T | Deep venous thrombosis |
Medical abbreviations E-L
This table contains a list of common medical abbreviations used on medical certificates and reports by health professionals from E-L.
Letter | Abbreviation |
| E-L See also: A-D and M-Z | (L), E.C.G, E.C.T, E.E.G, E.N.T, E.S.N, F.H, F.W.B, G.A, G.A, H.O, I.D.K, I.P, I.Q, I.S.Q, I.V, L 5, L.E, L.O.C |
Abbreviations E-L
Abbreviation | Description |
(L) | Left |
E.C.G | Electrocardiogram |
E.C.T | Electroconvulsive therapy (shock treatment) |
E.E.G | Electroencephalogram |
E.N.T | Ear, nose and throat |
E.S.N | Educationally sub-normal |
F.H | Family History |
F.W.B | Full weight bearing |
G.A | General anaesthetic |
G.A | Gross assessment |
H.O | History of |
I.D.K | Internal derangement knee |
I.P | Invalid Pension |
I.Q | Intelligence quotient |
I.S.Q | In status quo |
I.V | Intravenous |
L 5 | Lumbar |
L.E | Lower extremity |
L.O.C | Loss of consciousness |
Medical Abbreviations M-Z
Table 7: This table contains a list of common medical abbreviations used on medical certificates and reports by health professionals from M-Z.
Letter | Abbreviation |
| M-Z See also: A-D and E-L | (R), M.B.A, M.R, M.S, M.V.A, N.A.D, N.O.F, N.W.B, O.A, O.E, P.M.H, P.O.P, P.W.B, Post op, R, R.A, R.O.M, R.T.W, S 1, T 12, T.D, T.I.A, U.E, Vertebrae, W/C, X's |
Abbreviations M-Z
Abbreviation | Description |
(R) | Right |
M.B.A | Motor bike accident |
M.R | Mental retardation |
M.S | Multiple sclerosis |
M.V.A | Motor vehicle accident |
N.A.D | No abnormality detected |
N.O.F | Neck of femur |
N.W.B | Non-weight bearing |
O.A | Osteoarthritis |
O.E | On examination |
P.M.H | Past medical history |
P.O.P | Plaster of Paris |
P.W.B | Partial weight bearing |
Post op | Post-operative |
R | Treatment |
R.A | Rheumatoid arthritis |
R.O.M | Range of movement |
R.T.W | Return to work |
S 1 | Sacrum |
T 12 | Thoracic |
T.D | Terminal device |
T.I.A | Transient ischaemic attack |
U.E | Upper extremity |
Vertebrae | Vertebrae |
W/C | Worker's compensation |
X's | Exercises |
Medical symbols
Table 9: This table contains a list of common symbols used on medical certificates and reports by health professionals.
Symbols | Description |
1/7 | One day |
2/12 | Two months |
9/52 | Nine weeks |
< | Up to |
> | Greater than |
# | Fracture |
≈ | Approximately |
Arrow pointing up | Increased |
Arrow pointing down | Decreased |
Medical terminology prefixes
Medical terminology A-H
Table 10: This table contains a list of medical terminology prefixes from A-H used by health professionals.
Letter | Prefix |
| A-H See also: I-Z | Ab, Ad, Aden, Ambi, Anti, Arthr, Auto, Bi, Brachi, Brady, Carcin, Cardi, Cephal, Circum, Contra, Crani, Cut, Derm(at), Di, Dis, Dors, Dys, Encephal, Ex, Gastr, Gloss, Glyc, Hem(at), Hemi, Hydr, Hyper, Hypo |
Medical terms A-H
Prefix | Description |
Ab | Away, from |
Ad | To, toward |
Aden | bland |
Ambi | both |
Anti | against |
Arthr | joint |
Auto | self |
Bi | Two, life |
Brachi | arm |
Brady | slow |
Carcin | cancer |
Cardi | heart |
Cephal | head |
Circum | around |
Contra | Against, opposed |
Crani | skull |
Cut | skin |
Derm(at) | skin |
Di | Two, double |
Dis | Apart, away from |
Dors | back |
Dys | Bad (pain), difficulty |
Encephal | brain |
Ex | Out of |
Gastr | stomach |
Gloss | tongue |
Glyc | sweet (sugar) |
Hem(at) | blood |
Hemi | half |
Hydr | Water |
Hyper | Above, extreme |
Hypo | Under, below |
Medical terminology I-Z
Table 12: This table contains a list of medical terminology prefixes from I-Z used by health professionals.
Letter | Prefix |
| I-Z See also: A-H | In, Inter, Intra, Intro, Mal, Micro, Multi, Neur, Ophthalm, Orth, Ost(e), Para, Pod, Poly, Post, Pre, Pro, Pseud, Psych, Re, Retro, Semi, Somat, Sub, Super, Supra, Syn, Sym, Trans |
Medical terms I-Z
Prefix | Description |
In | in, on, not |
Inter | between, among |
Intra | within, inside |
Intro | into, within |
Mal | bad, abnormal |
Micro | small |
Multi | many, much |
Neur | nerve |
Ophthalm | eye |
Orth | straight, normal |
Ost(e) | bone |
Para | beside, beyond |
Pod | foot |
Poly | many |
Post | after, in time or place |
Pre | before, in time or place |
Pro | In front of, before |
Pseud | false |
Psych | mind |
Re | back again |
Retro | backwards |
Semi | half |
Somat | body |
Sub | under, below |
Super | above, extreme |
Supra | above, over |
Syn, Sym | with, together |
Trans | Across, beyond |
Medical suffixes
Medical suffixes used by health professionals
Table 14: This table contains a list relating to medical suffixes used by health professionals.
Suffixes | Description |
cele | tumour, hernia |
cide | kill (cause death) |
ectomy | excision, removal of |
emia | blood |
esthesia | sensation, feel |
gram | tracing, record |
graph | write, record |
itis | inflammation |
logy | science or study of |
oma | tumour |
osis | process (disease), increase |
(o)stomy | creation of an opening, cutting into |
pathy | disease of |
phobia | fear |
plasty | mould, shape |
plegia | paralysis |
uria | urine |
Common medical conditions
Referrals for an Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) are for job seekers who are not claiming or receiving Disability Support Pension (DSP). This has no impact on the assessment of a DSP claim, including the requirement for a Job Capacity Assessment (JCA). If an ESAt is conducted for a job seeker who has not claimed DSP, the assessor can consider upgrading to a JCA if there is sufficient medical evidence to assess eligibility.
Medical conditions A-C
See Medical condition classification (SA351) publication.
Table 15: This table contains a list of common medical conditions starting with letters A-C that may be used when making a decision about eligibility for DSP
Conditions A-C
Condition | Description |
Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) | An acquired brain injury is a loss of brain function caused by either: - motor vehicle accident, sport or work related injury or an assault
- poisoning such as an overuse of alcohol, prescribed or illegal drugs or petrol or chemical sniffing
- a stroke
- either cancerous or non-cancerous brain tumours
- an infection such as meningitis or encephalitis
- a lack of oxygen - examples include a near drowning or a lack of blood flow to the brain
Treatment can be either medication (pain relief or anti-convulsant medication), or rehabilitation including speech therapy, physiotherapy and exercise program, or counselling. When a person sustains a brain injury as it is impossible to predict how long it will take the customer to recover. Brain injury may cause a range of changes to a person's behaviour as well as to their physical and thinking capabilities. Some changes are permanent while others are only temporary. For job seekers not claiming/receiving DSP, an Employment Services Assessment will help to assess the customer's level of work capacity. A nominee may assist the customer to act on their behalf with Services Australia. |
Amputation | This is the permanent removal of a limb/part of a limb. While the loss of the limb is permanent the effect of the impairment on the customer's work capacity needs to be assessed. Treatment can include artificial limbs, prosthetic devices, mobility aids or rehabilitation. Things to consider are that impairment ratings can be quite high but a continuing inability to work depends on the nature of the amputation, the person's skills and their adjustment to the impairment. For job seekers not claiming/receiving DSP, consider an Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) to assess work capacity and suitable employment assistance. |
Anxiety | This can be minor to severe apprehension/fear often without a specific cause. It can include panic attacks and some phobias. Treatment can be either medication (such as an antidepressant), counselling, psychotherapy or another form of supportive therapy. Psychological and psychiatric disorders that continue for a period of 12 months or more may require an Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) for job seekers not claiming/receiving DSP. |
Asthma | This is when airflow is restricted in the lungs with recurrent episodes of breathing difficulty. Attacks may be caused by exercise, infection or exposure to substances such as pollen, dust or chemicals. Treatment is usually a medication administered by an inhaler, nebuliser or tablet. The medication can differ (preventative or remedial) depending on how severe the asthma is. The illness is usually of an episodic nature with the attacks being only a short period of time. Where a customer has had asthma for a long time an Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) should be considered for job seekers not claiming/receiving DSP. An ESAt will assist to determine work capacity and suitable employment assistance. |
Burns | These are described in terms of degree and thickness. Partial thickness burns may be: - first degree only involving the outer layer of skin (epidermis)
- second degree involves the epidermis and dermis (layer of skin just below the epidermis)
Full thickness or third degree burns involve all skin layers. Treatment for serious burns may include skin grafts. There is possibly a risk of infection. Recovery often takes a long time when a large area of skin is involved or Z - plasty (surgical revision of a scar) has been performed. It may be necessary to obtain further information from the treating doctor or to consult senior staff as to what action needs to be taken. Where there are serious burns an Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) should be considered for job seekers not claiming/receiving DSP to determine work capacity and suitable employment assistance options. |
Cancer-Carcinoma, Tumours | This is an invasive cellular destruction or abnormal growth, which may affect healthy organs, tissue and skin or bone. Common cancers are: - Breast
- Lung
- Stomach
- Pancreas
- Liver
- Skin (melanoma)
- Bone
These types of cancers are usually malignant. Tumours can also be benign which are non-cancerous Treatment can be surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and palliative care (pain relief). Many types of cancer can be treated, and a person can go into remission. A terminal prognosis means that life expectancy is less than 24 months. It is important to remember that a high level of sensitivity and tact is required. It may be appropriate to refer the customer to a social worker or a senior staff member. A nominee may be required depending on the type of cancer and the side effects of the treatment. Descriptions such as metastasis/es and secondary mean that the tumour cells have spread elsewhere in the body. Disability Support Pension (DSP) could be manifestly granted without the need for a Job Capacity Assessment (JCA) if medical evidence indicates that the customer's condition is terminal and average life expectancy for a person with this condition is less than 24 months. |
Carpal tunnel syndrome | This impacts the nerve entrapment in the forearm and wrist. It affects the ability to grip and manipulate objects. The treatment can be rest, splinting or physiotherapy. Many cases do not resolve and will require release surgery. The recovery period is usually about 12 months. A customer may require a referral for an Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) if there is a long medical certificate history. Treatment may restrict referral to employment options. |
Cerebrovascular Accident (Stroke) (CVA) | This is a serious sudden haemorrhage or blockage of blood vessel(s) in the brain resulting in a lack of oxygen. This may lead to a speech/cognition impairment, paralysis, weakness or death. Emergency treatment is required in most cases (for example anti-clotting treatment) and/or surgery. Physical and speech therapy may be required depending on the location and extent of the injury. Stroke can occur in many places in the brain and can have varying degrees of severity. Generally, the recovery takes place in the first 3 to 6 months after the stroke and improvement can continue for up to 2 years and in some cases longer. It is likely that there will be a permanent loss of function resulting from the stroke. An Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) will help determine the level of functional impact of the stroke, medical eligibility for payment and the most suitable option for employment assistance. |
Chronic Obstructive Airways Disease (COAD) | This is a respiratory disease, which can cause decreased airway size and increased airway secretions. It includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, a major cause of which is cigarette smoking. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, cough and tachycardia (an abnormal rapid heart rate). Treatment can include medications such asbronchodilators, antibiotics, expectorants and corticosteroids. Posture may be used to improve the lung function and continued smoking is discouraged. Oxygen therapy may be used in severe cases. The condition may result in permanent functional limitation including a reduced effort tolerance. Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) or Job Capacity Assessment will determine the level of incapacity, the customer's medical eligibility for payment and the most suitable option for employment assistance. A nominee may also be useful to assist the customer in dealing with Services Australia. |
Cruciate Ligament injury | This is an important ligament that provides stability to the knee joint. This is a common sporting injury. Treatment can include rest, physiotherapy, splinting and crutches. There is also the possibility of arthroscopic repair surgery if the knee does not improve. Recovery is usually within 6 months. Employment options may be restricted for the customer due to mobility problems. If the customer is not claiming/receiving DSP, refer them for an Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) if there is a long medical history. |
Medical conditions D-H
Table 17: This table contains a list of common medical conditions starting with letters D-H that may be used when making a decision about eligibility for DSP.
Conditions D-H
Condition | Description |
Depression | Depression can also appear on a medical certificate as anxiety/depression. This is psychological state of lowered mood, sadness, fearfulness and worry. It is common for sufferers of depression to have low motivation and persistence. Self-care can also be affected. Types of depression include: - Reactive depression
- Post natal depression
- Endogenous or major depression
- Bipolar disorder (manic depression)
Treatment usually includes antidepressants and anxyolitic medication, counselling, psychotherapy or other supportive therapy. Depression can last a long time depending on the type (for example, major or manic depression are likely to be long-term conditions). Depending on whether the person is claiming DSP, an Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) or Job Capacity Assessment may be required to assess work capacity and most suitable employment assistance options. |
Diabetes | Diabetes can be noted as I.D.D.M (Insulin dependent diabetes or type 1 diabetes) or as N.I.D.D.M (non-insulin dependent diabetes or type 2 diabetes). It is due to: - lack of insulin secretion by the pancreas, or
- the inability of insulin to function normally in the body
This is treated either with insulin tablets/injections or a controlled diet. Things to consider are that both types of diabetes are generally well controlled with treatment and should not affect the customer's work capacity. Severe or untreated cases may lead to serious complications including end organ damage (for example, diabetic retinopathy, peripheral neuropathy). A referral for an Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) may be appropriate to determine payment eligibility and the most suitable employment assistance options. |
Disc prolapse | Disc prolapse can be lumbar, thoracic or cervical spine (lower and upper back and neck). The discs are the soft tissue cushion between the bones of the spine. They cushion against impact and protect the nervous system. They also assist with mobility and flexibility of spinal and neck movements. Treatment of an acute episode is generally treated with rest, pain relief/anti-inflammatory medications, physiotherapy and/or chiropractic treatment. Surgery to fuse the spine or relieve pressure on the nerves may be performed in some cases. The impact of the condition on a person's ability to work can vary. Depending on whether the person is claiming/receiving DSP, an ESAt or JCA may be needed to assess work capacity, medical eligibility for DSP and employment assistance options. Service Officers should allow customers some time for the condition to settle before a JCA. This information can be obtained from the medical evidence. |
Drug addiction | Drug addiction may also be written on a medical certificate as substance or alcohol abuse. This is a compulsive and addictive misuse/abuse of legal and illegal substances. Substances can either be administered by injection, orally or inhaled and include cannabis, heroin, cocaine and alcohol, as well as other substances. Treatment is either detoxification or supportive therapy. Unsuccessful attempts at rehabilitation are common. Things to consider are: - A history of medical certificates
- Some periods on a temporary incapacity exemption while receiving JobSeeker Payment (JSP) or
Youth Allowance (YA) This may be a sign of a serious problem. An Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) should be considered to determine work capacity and employment assistance options. A nominee may be useful to assist the customer in dealing with Services Australia. |
Epilepsy | Grand Mal or Tonic Clonic seizures are convulsive seizures. Petite Mal is a minor absence of concentration. Epilepsy is a seizure of the brain which results in a fit or convulsion. The incapacity resulting from this condition is usually temporary and tends to be recurring with frequency of attacks ranging from many times a day to every several years. Treatment is by medication such as Carbamazepine or Sodium Valproate which generally provides good control. There could be restrictions such as not being allowed to drive a car or operate machinery. For job seekers, refer for an Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) if there is a long medical certificate history. Employment options could be restricted due to the unpredictable nature of the condition, safety issues and possible side effects of medication. |
Hepatitis (A, B and C) | Is an inflammatory condition of the liver which may be caused by a bacterial or viral infection, alcohol, parasitic infection, toxins, blood transfusions or by the use of contaminated needles or instruments. Hepatitis A is a form of infectious viral hepatitis. It has a slow onset of signs and symptoms, and the infection is usually followed by a complete recovery. Hepatitis B and C may progress to a chronic disease resulting in prolonged illness, destruction of liver cells, cirrhosis or death. Treatment may be Interferon and Gamma Globulin injections. Regular blood tests are required to monitor liver functions. For job seekers, a referral for an Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) may be necessary to assess work capacity. |
Hernia | Is an opening or tear in the muscle wall of the abdomen. A typical hernia is either: Surgical repair may be required, and complete recovery can occur within 12 weeks. The customer is likely to be fit to return to their usual work. If customer was a manual worker, retraining assistance may need to be offered. |
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) | This is a type of virus which results in AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). It is transmitted through sexual contact, by blood/tissue to blood contact, or from mother to child in utero or to the infant via breastfeeding. HIV infects the cells of the immune system over a long incubation period averaging 10 years. When the immune system is destroyed AIDS develops. Treatment can include antiviral therapy (multiple combination drug therapies), counselling, maintenance of healthy diet and lifestyle. Treatment of HIV related infections can include chemotherapy, blood transfusions, radiotherapy and pain management. For job seekers consult with a senior staff member or refer for an Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) if work capacity and possible medical eligibility for DSP is unclear. It is unlikely that customers in the early stages of HIV qualify for DSP. If medical evidence states that AIDS/HIV infection is category 4, DSP could be manifestly granted without the need for an assessment. |
Medical conditions I-Z
Table 19: This table contains a list of common medical conditions starting with letters I-Z that may be used when making a decision about eligibility for DSP.
Conditions I-Z
Condition | Description |
Leukaemia | Is a cancer that affects the white blood cells. It affects the blood and bone marrow. Treatment may be chemotherapy, the use of antibiotics to prevent infections, blood transfusions to replace red cells/platelets and bone marrow transplant. The incapacity for work may be long term. For jobseekers consider referral to an Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) for advice regarding payment options and assistance with community support. Customers may have a carer who applies for Carer Payment (CP). A nominee may also be useful for the customer to deal with Services Australia on their behalf. |
Liver disease | Also known as abnormal liver function. This can be any one of a group of disorders of the liver. This is usually a provisional diagnosis pending further investigation. The term may be an indicator of substance abuse or an uncertain Hepatitis C diagnosis. It may also indicate abnormal liver function tests where diagnosis has not been confirmed. Treatment will depend on the diagnosis. For job seekers an Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) will assist to assess work capacity and possible eligibility for alternative assistance. |
Low Back Pain (also known as Lumbago) | This is a back injury where radiological investigation has not been completed to find out the cause or the injury. This term may be used where a soft tissue injury is suspected and a disc or ligament injury is clearly identified, for example disc prolapse. Treatment is rest, pain relief and physiotherapy. A referral for rehabilitation or training may assist. There may be a change in the diagnosis on the medical certificates when an injury has been identified (for example from low back pain to L5/S1 disc prolapse). This injury is common in manual workers and recovery is usually within 12 weeks. |
MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) also known as S Aureus (golden staph) | MRSA is an infection that is common in hospital wards. Staph Aureus is resistant to many antibiotics, and it is difficult to get rid of. MRSA enters the body through an open wound and is a common infection in compound fractures. Treatment may be intravenous injections or infusions with strong antibiotics. Open wounds may not heal for many weeks or months and may require hospital stays for wound treatment and surgery to assist the wounds to close. MRSA can be considered temporary however an infection can persist for up to 12 months. Check medical certificate history and any recent medical reviews. |
Myocardial Infarction | Also known as Heart Attack. This is a sudden onset of heart failure. Treatment may include emergency hospital treatment and possible cardiac by-pass surgery. Recovery can be expected within 6 months. Customers who are manual workers may benefit from retraining. For job seekers an Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) should be considered to determine the most suitable employment assistance options. |
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) | A mental health condition in which repetitive actions such as order, rules, rituals, and detail seem impossible to stop. These actions interfere with everyday functions. Treatment may be anti-depressant medication, counselling, psychotherapy and possible hospitalisation for a short period. Things to consider are that it can be difficult to treat, and the symptoms may persist for more than 2 years. For job seekers an Employment Services Assessment (ESAt) may help to recommend a suitable referral to employment and community support services may be possible. |
Pneumonia | Is an infection of the lungs, which can be due to bacteria, viruses or fungi. Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, cough, chest pain, the production of thick sputum and rapid pulse. Treatment includes bed rest, fluids, antibiotics, expectorants and oxygen in severe cases. Typically, this is only a short-term illness with 6 to 12 weeks recovery. Most people are usually fit to return to their usual work within 12 weeks |
Pregnancy | This is not a medical condition. This only relates to complications of pregnancy which may include: - Gestational diabetes
- Toxemia/preeclampsia (this may include high blood pressure, fluid retention/edema and proteins in the urine)
- Hyperemesis gravidarum (protracted vomiting with weight loss and fluid/electrolyte imbalance)
The treatment will depend on the condition the customer has. This may include bed rest, fluids, electrolytes, nutrients/ vitamins, insulin, a high protein diet, sedation and anti-hypertensives. Customers who are pregnant are exempt from the JobSeeker Payment (JSP) mutual obligation requirements for 6 weeks before the expected date of the birth and 6 weeks after the birth of the child. These exemptions apply even if the baby is stillborn or placed for adoption. An exemption from mutual obligation requirements may also apply where there are complications of pregnancy resulting in an incapacity for work. |
Psychosis (Psychotic episode) | This is a major acute psychiatric illness with symptoms of hallucination, suicidal ideation, delusion and/or major behavioural abnormality. A short hospitalisation is required. Treatment can include anti-psychotic medication and supportive therapy. Things to consider include that it may be difficult to determine the impact of the illness and the side effects of medication. A nominee may be useful to assist the customer in dealing with Services Australia on their behalf. |
Schizophrenia | This is a term used to describe a group of mental disorders which are characterised by: - poor organisation
- social withdrawal
- hallucinations
- poor insight and does not understand the illness
- low motivation
- poor self-care
- delusions
- thought disorders
Treatment can include tranquillisers, antidepressants, anti-psychotic agents and psychotherapy. The condition may be mild or even require prolonged hospitalisation. The condition can be difficult to treat and result in a long term incapacity for work. Senior staff and social worker involvement can assist with community support services. A nominee may also be useful to act on the customer's behalf when dealing with Services Australia. |