Return to Work and Occupational Medicine
Studies have shown that an employee’s return to work rate contributes to an effective and efficient rehabilitation and recovery program. This is because being off work for prolonged periods can considerably decrease the likelihood of an employee returning to work, among other reasons, which will also have a negative impact on his family.
Fortunately, employers can adopt several ways in helping their injured employees get back and stay at work. The following steps are recommended but it must be emphasized that consultations with occupational therapists at a Healthpointe clinic will provide the best results. (visit any Healthpointe clinic, such as the one in Corona, which is also accessible to Norco, Home Gardens, Mira Loma, and Pedley).
First, appoint an in-house rehabilitation, recovery and return to work coordinator or similar person. If it is not possible for any reason, getting the services of occupational therapists from Healthpointe is also highly recommended.
Second, adopt a proactive approach in dealing with a worker who wants to return to work. Keep in mind that a previously injured worker need not be 100% recovered (i.e., fully healed) in order to resume work-related activities. Studies have shown that controlled activities are beneficial for effective recovery, as is the case for return-to-work conditioning programs, which emphasizes the importance of instilling a return to work corporate culture.
Third, be optimistic and focus on what the worker can do instead of what he cannot do. You can review the worker’s duties with him and his doctor as well as your in-house coordinator or third-party occupational therapist to determine the tasks that can be done for the meantime.
Fourth, explain to the worker about the steps that he has to perform in order to return to work. Effective communication is a must in the program from the time the worker was injured to the time he returns to work in his capacity.
Fifth, adopt a customized approach to each worker’s desire to return to work. Each injury will be different so a different approach is necessary. This is where your discussions with the worker and consultations with concerned professionals will come in.
Ultimately, the compassionate approach adopted by employers for their returning employees will redound to their mutual benefit.
Contact any of the Healthpointe clinics, such as the one at Garden Grove (near Stanton, Santa Ana, and Westminster) for more information about return to work programs.
About Healthpointe:
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 Corona, which is conveniently located by Norco, Home Gardens, Mira Loma, and Pedley. 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.