Training and development needs vary according to case load, organisation size, and the other work responsibilities of the RTW coordinator.
In a small organisation – of, say, 20 staff – high levels of training are impractical. In large organisations there is a greater need for the RTW Coordinator to be able to focus on system and strategic work and to be of broad influence.
Training options include:
1. Training options specific to RTW
| • | RTW basic training. This often involves a two day course, run at a number of training or rehabilitation organisations; |
| • | Industry training associations. Some industry associations run coordinator training, requiring attendance of, for example, four hours a week over a ten week course; |
| • | University training. Undergraduate or postgraduate courses are run at selected universities, and result in recognised professional rehabilitation qualifications; and |
| • | Other tertiary qualifications in the health field, such as occupational therapy or physiotherapy. Such qualifications are particularly relevant to larger organisations. |
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2. Training options relevant to the coordinator's competencies
| • | Advanced communication skills, including: |
| • | Influencing senior management; |
| • | Presentation skill development; and |
| • | Conflict resolution and mediation; |
| • | Spreadsheet and database management; |
| • | Organisational management; and |
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For more information on the role of RTW Coordinators in injury management see RTW Coordinators in Key players' roles and responsibilities.
