MDLD screening and early diagnosis

WorkCover Queensland has partnered with Heart of Australia to ensure eligible former coal workers in rural and remote Queensland communities have access to screening and early diagnosis of mine dust lung diseases (MDLD).

The cost of a lung health screening through Heart of Australia for eligible former coal workers may be covered under a workers’ compensation claim through WorkCover Queensland.

Who is eligible?

You might be eligible if:

• you are permanently retired or no longer working in a coal industry, and
• your last employer was not a self-insured employer, and
• you have been exposed to coal dust in your employment, and
• you have worked in coal-related industries, e.g. transport of coal (road, rail or ports) or coal power stations.

How can I access this initiative?

If you are concerned you may have a MDLD or are experiencing respiratory symptoms, you should consult with your doctor to discuss your concerns.

If your GP considers you may have a MDLD or other work-related respiratory condition that requires investigation, you should obtain a:

• Work Capacity Certificate; and
• referral to Heart of Australia (this can be noted on Part C under the referral section of the Work Capacity Certificate form).

A lung health screening on the Heart of Australia trucks can only be funded if a WorkCover claim is lodged.

There are several ways to make a claim with WorkCover:

• the fastest and easiest way is to complete and submit an online claim
• phone 1300 362 128 and talk to a member of the WorkCover team.
• complete a claim form (DOCX, 0.09 MB) and either:
  • upload using our online service
  • fax it to 1300 651 387
  • post your completed form to GPO Box 2459, Brisbane Qld 4001.

WorkCover will contact you after making a claim to discuss your eligibility and the Heart of Australia booking process.

When is Heart of Australia in my area?

The Heart of Australia fleet visits a range of destinations each year. Lung health screenings are available on the Heart 5 Truck. For more information on upcoming visits, please see the schedule for Heart 5 on the Heart of Australia website.