About medical appeals
A person who disagrees with a decision to decline or cancel their benefit on the basis of advice received from a medical practitioner may appeal the decision to the Medical
Appeals Board. Decisions relating to the following benefits are subject to Medical Appeals Board review:
- Child Disability Allowance.
- Invalid’s Benefit.
- Sickness Benefit.
Medical Appeals Boards are made up of three members and can include:
- medical practitioners
- rehabilitation professionals including:
- occupational therapists
- physiotherapists
- nurses
- psychologists
- other people with expertise in the fields of vocational training or vocational support for people with sickness, injury or disability.
The practitioner who made the assessment that resulted in the decision to decline or cancel the person’s benefit is not included on the Medical Appeals Board considering that decision.
In accordance with the Social Security Act 1964, the Medical Appeals Board is tasked with taking an impartial look at all the information available on the medical condition or capacity for work. The person seeking the appeal is encouraged to present any additional medical documentation or evidence that would support their appeal.
The appeal hearing is an informal meeting which usually lasts about one hour and is held in a private room. The person seeking the appeal usually attends the hearing and is welcome to bring a support person with them.
The Medical Appeals Board may request the person be examined by a specialist or other health practitioner to assist in reaching their decision.
Decisions are expected within 1–2 weeks of the hearing and a copy of the decision is provided to the person who initiated the appeal.
The decision of the Medical Appeals Board is final and there is no further right of appeal.
For more information on medical appeals board see:
Asking for a medical appeals board hearing
Process for medical appeals board reviews