Return to Work Programs (RTW)

A Return-to-Work Program is one element of a cost containment policy designed to eliminate wasteful spending and reduce the cost of workers‘ compensation insurance.   The concept is dedicated to getting injured workers back to work, by providing them with temporary modified jobs that account for any physical restrictions they may be under.

Studies have also found that delayed treatment for worker injuries may produce greater costs, while early case management, through accountability and responsibility of all involved, leads to just the opposite.

As the employee’s health and strength improve, job tasks are gradually increased until the employee is back to work and functioning at full capacity. Returning an injured worker to the work place reduces associated recovery costs, including medical expenses, rehab expenses, therapy, and surgical expenses. Often the percentage of permanent impairment is significantly reduced. RTW programs have proven effective in reducing attorney involvement, and leading to quicker recovery and reduced costs while providing an excellent employee benefit.

A patient’s emotional distress usually increases, as does the resulting number of surgical procedures, in correlation to the number of days away from work. This is greatly reduced when a worker enters a productive role, including modified duty.

Most workers injured on the job would rather be working than convalescing at home. Typically, the claimant will contact an attorney two weeks after injury. Nearly all litigated claims result in higher settlements, and workers who retain an attorney see an average of five physicians, while those who do not retain an attorney are treated by an average of two physicians. Studies have shown that the chances of litigation are reduced by 50 percent if the employer contacts the injured worker within one week after the injury occurs and positively reinforces the worker’s self-image and value to the company.

To obtain a copy of the Business Insurance Associates RTW report, contact our office at (907) 274-4142 or email [email protected].

This report contain information for the development and implementation of an effective RWT program.