ACC Sensitive Claims Review Announced

Check out the following press release by New Zealand Government at 3:41 pm, 26 Apr 2010. It is erstounding that Nick Smith is keep paroting that the new clinical pathway is based on the Massey research - even though Massey has rejected this claim. Indeed, nothing in the Massey research resembles the new clinical pathway.

However, the recommendations in Felicity Goodyear-Smith's research (if not funded by ACC it certainly is supported by ACC) from 2005 looks very much like the new ACC clinical pathway. It does make you think, doesn't it, that a well-know anti-sexual-abuse campaigner with strong connections to convicted perpetrators of sexual abuse (Centrepoint) is having a hand in how services for survivors are shaped.

PRESS RELEASE: Minister for ACC Nick Smith today announced the panel and terms of reference for an independent clinical review into ACC's new approach to managing sensitive claims.  

"Last October ACC changed its approach to managing sensitive claims in response to more than four years research work from Massey University into best practice clinical guidelines," Dr Smith said. "These guidelines were launched in March 2008 by the previous Government.  

"These changes have never been about costs savings. I have repeatedly stressed to the corporation that the focus must be on delivering to victims of sexual abuse or assault that have a mental injury the best help available to achieve a timely and successful recovery.  

"I have been very hesitant as a politician to interfere in clinical decisions but acknowledge the changes have caused controversy. That is why I have initiated this independent clinical review to ensure best possible practice in this sensitive area.  

"The members of the review panel have the necessary skills and experience to bring a fresh and independent perspective to this difficult area of ACC's work. I expect the group to report back to me by July.   

"The review panel is to be chaired by former Mental Health Commissioner Dr Barbara Disley and includes clinical physiologist Clive Banks, consultant Ruth Herbert and psychiatrist Professor Graham Mellsop."

Comments

[Marg]

castorgirl - I trust Ruth Herbert's input. Wishing you well.

[Gudrun Frerichs, PhD]

I seem to lean more on the cynical side. I don't have much trust in the government and ACC chosing independent people. The whole exercise of the new clinical pathway is a carefully staged affair. I would be very surprised if they panel is unbiased. I'd love to be proven wrong! :)

[castorgirl]

Does anyone know the stance or sympathies of those on the review panel? It will be a waste of time if they're supporters of the current system.

I've just changed therapist and am to be assessed under the new clinical pathway - wish me luck!

Take care,
castorgirl