The NRL have appointed Dr Paul Bloomfield as the code’s chief medical officer.

Dr Bloomfield, who filled a similar role for Manly for 10 years, replaces Dr Ron Muratore, who stepped down from the role at the end of last season.

Part of his remit in the role is to work closely with CMOs of all 16 clubs with a focus on policy development.

A dedicated medical and player safety advisory group has also been set up to develop policy for player safety.

It will comprise Dr Ken Crichton, Dr Donald Kuah and Dr Carolyn Broderick – all highly-qualified medical specialists with wide experience in sports medicine.

NRL head of football Todd Greenberg said the group was formed following recommendations from the new best practice review aimed at improving player safety.

Greenberg said high on the list of issues to tackle is continuing to change attitudes towards concussion.

It follows the success of last year’s rule change where players had to be withdrawn from play for testing if they show signs of being concusssed.

“I have no doubt that there are many players who avoided more serious injuries and damage because the new laws identified they were not fit to return to the field,” Greenberg said.

“We have to put an end to the notion that players are brave if they keep playing when they should be under treatment by a doctor.

“Our aim has to be to look after the long-term safety of our players and we need the clubs, the players and coaches to continue to work with us in changing that culture.”