How to Accommodate the Injured Employee
While professionalism is the main pillar of the employer-employee relationship, a human-to-human approach is greatly appreciated.
Below, we’ve outlined some tips for employers on how to meet the needs of the injured employee returning to work.
Explore ways to accommodate the employee’s injury
- Employers should ask, “How can I assist in the recovery?” Employees will discuss their medical options with a doctor, who will set the basic guidelines for physical activity. Employers should talk with employees in order to create a work environment that will accommodate the employee’s needs during the recovery process.
Discuss the physical and mental demands of your employee’s job
- Employees know the demands of their jobs, as well as their present disability. Consider the employee’s capacities and restrictions when assigning new tasks. Evaluate which tasks employees can perform with or without reasonable accommodations..
For example:
- Adopt a job restructuring mindset wherein employees will only engage in tasks considered safe for their physical condition
- Make necessary changes in the way that job duties are performed and goals are delivered
- Make physical adjustments to the employee’s workstation based on ergonomic evaluations
- Provide new work-related equipment including the training on its safe, efficient and effective use
- Allow time off for regular medical evaluations to ensure that the employee progresses in his recovery
Of course, employers must ensure that an employee’s work restrictions are adhered to even when the employee feels capable of pushing his physical boundaries. You are not just minimizing your work comp expenses, but you are also promoting productivity in the face of an employee’s injury.
Don’t forget to keep communication with the employee open. Make sure your employee feels valued as a part of the team and encourage him to contribute within reason.
Ask the occupational therapists at the Garden Grove Healthpointe clinic near Stanton, Santa Ana, and Westminster, for more information about return-to-work programs.
Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including Garden Grove by Stanton, Santa Ana, and Westminster. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit Healthpointe.net.