More Simple Tips on Running a Successful RTW Program

Remember the question we often hear is “Okay, we want a successful return to work program, but how is it done?” and we know achieving a proficient return to work program requires EFFORT on the part of the employer beyond placing the injured employee back into his/her previous job with instructions “not to pick up anything heavy.”

Employees benefit from awell-constructed return to work program by:

1. A reduction in the economic impact on the employee who is receiving a regular salary as opposed to the lower amount received in workers comp indemnity benefits.

2. A reduction or elimination of the psychological effects of being separated from the work place.

3. It allows the injured employee to maintain the social network and emotional ties to the work place and remain a part of the work environment. (WCxKit)

4. A faster recovery from the injury – research has shown. (Inactivity leads to muscle and joint stiffness causing a negative effect on the employee's ability to recover from the injury).

Overcoming Roadblocks

Some employers run into roadblocks when trying to construct their RTW program. There are valid reasons preventing the employer from providing customized transitional duty. Some of the roadblocks are:

1. Union contracts

2. Inability to alter machinery or equipment.

3. The necessity of the employee being in top physical shape to perform the job.

An approach used by many employers to deal roadblocks to their RTW program is to have an alternative “modified duty off site” program. When the employee's restrictions or other barriers prevent the employee from working at the job site, placement of the employee at a non-profit charitable organization is an excellent alternative. The employee remain productive and does not get into the daytime television syndrome. The employer gets a charitable donation for the value of the salary and benefits paid to the injured worker.

Non-profit charitable organizations to consider:

1. Thrift stores like Salvation Army and Goodwill

2. Homeless person shelters

3. Animal shelters

4. Meals-on-wheels

5. Food banks

6. Literacy programs

7. Senior centers

While every type of charitable organization may not be available in the area of the employer, the odds are there is a charitable need the injured employee can meet regardless of where the employer and employee are located.

Surprise!!!! Unintended Consequences of Volunteer Work

There are employees who genuinely enjoy the volunteer work perhaps because the type of organization interests or “strikes a chord” with them.

One in particular was placed with an animal shelter and after he was released to full duty, he committed to continuing to volunteer as needed because he supported the cause.

Another enjoyed her temporary assignment creating toy displays in a thrift store. Interestingly, it was reported that toy sales increased 10% thanks to her creative efforts.

It seems finding an assignment employees enjoy and their motivation to support their community are keys in continued volunteering. Relationships are also developed, especially during longer assignments strengthening community bonds.

As there is the risk an employee may enjoy the modified duty off site alternative too much, the employer should structure it the same as a transitional job at the work place with a set maximum time limit of 15-30-45-60 or 90 days depending on the nature and severity of the employee's injury. The employer (or the nurse case manager) then works with the non-profit organization to be sure the employee's physical requirements are increased per the guidelines from the treating physician. (WCxKit)

A properly constructed RTW program saves the employer workers compensation cost and reduces the impact of lost employee production. The employer who puts forth the effort to construct their RTW to meet both their needs and the needs of the employee will enjoy significant cost savings while building employee loyalty and morale.

Author Rebecca Shafer, JD, President of Amaxx Risks Solutions, Inc. is a national expert in the field of workers compensation. She is a writer, speaker and website publisher. Her expertise is working with employers to reduce workers compensation costs, and her clients include airlines, healthcare, printing/publishing, pharmaceuticals, retail, hospitality and manufacturing.
Contact: [email protected] or 860-553-6604.

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Do not use this information without independent verification. All state laws vary. You should consult with your insurance broker or agent about workers comp issues.