Implementing the next two phases of employment involvement helps to manage claims efficiently and get workers back to work sooner.
The employer must require a tight post-injury process by following these five principles:
1. Obtain immediate medical assistance for the employee – send the employee to designated doctor or medical facility if statute permits.
2. Do not permit employee's with minor injuries or soft-tissue strains to wait to obtain medical assistance – most will end up going to the unapproved hospital emergency room or their own doctor.
3. While the employee is in-route to the treating physician, advise the treating physician of any temporary jobs you can offer during recovery.
4. Advise the treating physician of modifications you can make to the existing job to accommodate the work restrictions the physician gives the employee.
5. Have a goal of returning all employees to work within 1 to 3 days after the injury unless they are medically unable to perform any role for the employer.
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.
