Return-to-work (RTW) programs are a set of protocols and guidelines designed to help injured workers who cannot return to their original jobs due to medical restrictions. These programs provide transitional job options – modified or alternative roles – until employees have fully recovered.
Opportunities for Injured Workers
In coordinating the quality of medical care with transitional job options, employers have an opportunity to minimize the financial impact of a Workers’ Compensation claim. The objective of an RTW program is to get an injured employee back to work as soon as possible based on a physician’s recommendations.
Fosters Employee Productivity
Injured workers who can be placed in a modified or light-duty position can better work through any physical discomfort they may feel in lieu of remaining at home and focused on their current condition. An RTW program helps employees feel better about themselves as they continue to remain productive even if they’re working in a different role or at a limited capacity. They are able to maintain their daily routines and habits and have a sense of normalcy. Employees also feel valued by their employers, realizing that accommodations were made to bring them back to work, which ultimately helps boost morale. They will be more eager to train their temporary replacement.
Additionally, an RTW program fosters an environment in which repeated visits to the physician become continuously fewer, prescriptions are reduced, and the overall recovery period takes place at a much faster pace.
Reduces Wage-Loss Benefits
Employees will see more take-home pay with a transitional job than they would if they collected payments via Workers’ Compensation for a total disability. This is an excellent incentive for employees. At the same time, an employer can reduce the employee’s salary to reflect the transitional job, with Workers’ Compensation benefits supplementing the remainder of the salary up to the state’s maximum allowable benefits. The reduced benefits payable under Workers’ Compensation ultimately help reduce costs for employers.
Mitigates the Possibility of Litigation
An RTW program also helps reduce the likelihood of litigation and attorney involvement, as the employee remains productive and an integral part of the company. Attorney involvement typically prolongs the period of disability, which increases claims costs due to escalating wage-loss benefits and expenses.
About Manchester Specialty Programs
Manchester Specialty Programs specializes in providing agents and brokers with totally integrated business insurance solutions, including Workers’ Compensation coverage, to meet the needs of Home Care, Allied Health, and Human/Social Services organizations. Our carrier partners provide RTW programs to help employers reduce the cost of claims. For more information about how our products and services can help protect your insureds and how we recognize accredited firms, please contact us at 855.972.9399.