The longer an injured worker stays out of work, the more difficult it is to return. Return-to-Work (RTW) programs offer transitional or modified duty for injured workers in roles they are medically able to perform, helping employers save on hiring, retraining and workers’ compensation costs.
RTW success requires clear goals and policies communicated by top management to all employees. Maintain communication with injured workers, supervisors and medical providers throughout the recovery process.
Implementation
- Develop Clear Goals and Policies
- Have a written policy and procedures specifying that participation is mandatory when appropriate, medically-cleared work is available. Establish time limits on transitional duty. Consider alternative roles or accommodations for temporary and permanent impairments.
- Designate a Program Coordinator
- Make one person responsible for maintaining the program and managing correspondence to and from injured workers, medical providers and NYSIF.
- Identify Transitional Duty
- Perform a job-demands analysis of each position. Develop modified assignments by making use a worker's skills and knowledge. Options: part-time work, temporary jobs, alternative tasks, job sharing, jobs in other departments.
- Develop Standard Forms
- Modify sample forms to suit your needs.
- Maintain Communications
- Communicate early and often with the NYSIF case manager, the injured worker, medical personnel and affected co-workers.