Guided by experienced counsel and a medical expert, participants will learn the legal framework governing the collection, use, and storage of employee personal health information, practical strategies for obtaining and reviewing information from health care professionals, and key principles regarding using medical information at arbitration. Participants will leave ready to:
– assess the reasonableness of requests for employees’ personal health information;
– evaluate the adequacy of information provided and respond appropriately to vague or deficient information;
– approach employees/union members about needed information with sensitivity;
– write requests that prompt timely, useful responses from health care providers and medical experts;
– evaluate the appropriateness and utility of standardized medical information forms;
– determine what type of information should be obtained from different health care professionals (e.g. general practitioners, medical specialists, psychologists, occupational therapists) and assess when specialist reports or independent medical examinations are necessary;
– recognize when a health care professional is acting as an advocate or assuming an inappropriate role;
– safeguard personal health information in compliance with legislation and in accordance with best practices; and;
– use medical evidence effectively in the grievance and arbitration process